Chess Life 2012-03 March

GM Gregory Kaidanov
wins the 38th Eastern Open

March 2012 uschess.org
IFC:Layout 1 12/9/2011 9:25 AM Page 1

Trophies to top 15 individuals and top 3 teams in each section. 3 or more players
from the same school to make a team (top 3 scores added to give team final stand-
ings). Every player receives a souvenir.
6-SS, G/90, Sections
8-years-old and younger
MAIN EVENT
Friday, April 8
6:00 PM Opening Ceremony
6:30 PM Round 1
Saturday, April 9
10:00 AM Round 2
2:30 PM Round 3
6:30 PM Round 4
Sunday, April 10
9:00 AM Round 5
1:00 PM Round 6
5
SIDE EVENTS
Bughouse Tournament
Friday April 8, 1:00 PM
Entry fee: $25 per team
Blitz Tournament (G/5)
Entry fee: $15 by March 27,
$20 on-site

Hotel Reservations:
Please call (312) 787-6100
Entry & Info
Make checks payable to:
RKnights, Attn: All Girls,
PO Box 1074, Northbrook, IL 60065
Tel: (773) 844-0701
E-mail: renknights@aol.com
Entry Fee
$50 if postmarked by 3/13; $70 by 3/27;
$85 by 4/7 or $90 on-site
USCF membership required
All events held at the Doubletree,
300 East Ohio St, Chicago, IL
O


Hotel
Doubletree Chicago Magnificent Mile,
300 East Ohio St, Chicago, IL 60611
Hotel Chess Rate:
$139 if reserved by March 11, 2011


The Eighth Annual All-Girls
Open National Championships
April 810, 2011 Chicago, Illinois
The Ninth
April 20 22, 2012 - Chicago, Illinois
Awards
Trophies will be awarded to the top 15 individual players and top three teams in
each section. Three or more players from the same school make up a team (team
scores will be calculated based on the top 3 scores to give teams their final stand-
ings). All players will receive a souvenir to honor their participation.
Swissotel Hotel; 323 E. Wacker Dr,
Chicago, IL 60601
$169 by March 15, 2012
Breakfast included.
888-737-9477
3/25; 4/8
4/19; $90 on site



in association with
P

Swissotel Hotel;
323 E. Wacker Dr, Chicago, IL 60611
Online Registration
www.renaissanceknights.org/allgirls

6-SS, G/90, Sections
MAIN EVENT
Friday, April 8
6:00 PM Opening Ceremony
6:30 PM Round 1
Saturday, April 9
10:00 AM Round 2
2:30 PM Round 3
6:30 PM Round 4
Sunday, April 10
9:00 AM Round 5
1:00 PM Round 6
5:00 PM Awards Ceremony
SIDE EVENTS
Bughouse Tournament
Entry fee: $25 per team
Blitz Tournament (G/5)
Entry fee: $15 by March 27,
$20 on-site

Friday, April 20
Friday, April 20
Saturday, April 21
Friday, April 20
Sunday, April 22
2011_allgirls_ad_DL_r5_chess life 11/10/11 8:28 PM Page 4
2 Chess Life March 2012 uschess.org
Chess Life
Editorial Staff
Chess Life Editor &
Director of Publications Daniel Lucas dlucas@uschess.org
Chess Life Online Editor Jennifer Shahade jshahade@uschess.org
Chess Life for Kids Editor Glenn Petersen gpetersen@uschess.org
Senior Art Director Frankie Butler fbutler@uschess.org
Editorial Assistant/Copy Editor Alan Kantor akantor@uschess.org
Editorial Assistant Jo Anne Fatherly jfatherly@uschess.org
Editorial Assistant Jennifer Pearson jenpearson@uschess.org
Technical Editor Ron Burnett
TLA/Advertising Joan DuBois tla@uschess.org
Main office: Crossville, TN (931) 787-1234 Advertising inquiries: (931) 787-1234, ext. 123 TLAs: All TLAs
should be e-mailed to tla@uschess.org or sent to P.O Box 3967, Crossville, TN 38557-3967 Letters to the
editor: Please submit to letters@uschess.org Subscriptions: To subscribe to Chess Life, join the USCF or enter
a USCF tournament, go to uschess.org or call 1-800-903-USCF (8723) Change of address: Please send to
addresschange@uschess.org Other inquiries: feedback@uschess.org, (931) 787-1234, fax (931) 787-1200
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June 14th 17th, 2012
NATIONAL OPEN H U.S. GAME/10
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SIMULS H LECTURES H SCHOLASTICS
GRANDMASTER CHESS CAMP H AND MORE
IVIERA
HOTEL - CASINO - LAS VEGAS
H $59 ($89 weekend) Room Rates
H All new remodeled rooms
H Over $20M in Renovations
H Great New Restaurants
H Expanded Food Court
USCF Executive Board
President, Ruth Haring PO Box 1993, Chico, CA 95927 ruth@ruthharing.com
Vice President, Gary Walters Thompson Hine LLP, gary.walters@thompsonhine.com
3900 Key Center, 127 Public Square,
Cleveland, OH 44114
VP Finance, Allen Priest 220 West Main Street, Suite 2200 tyron316@hotmail.com
Louisville, KY 40202
Secretary, Mike Nietman 2 Boca Grande Way, Madison, WI 53719 mike.nietman@charter.net
Member at Large, Michael Atkins PO Box 6138, Alexandria, VA 22306 matkins2@cox.net
Member at Large, Jim Berry PO Box 351, Stillwater, OK 74076 jaberrycg@aol.com
Member at Large, Bill Goichberg PO Box 249, Salisbury Mills, NY 12577 chessoffice@aol.com
USCF Staff
Executive Director Bill Hall ext. 189 bhall@uschess.org
Assistant Executive Director
& Director of National Events Patricia Knight Smith 931-200-3411 patsmith@uschess.org
National Events Assistant Cody Stewart 931-787-3916 cstewart@uschess.org
Chief Accountant Peggy Eberhart ext. 131 peberhart@uschess.org
Chief Financial Officer Joe Nanna ext. 150 jnanna@uschess.org
Accounting Associate Susan Houston ext. 136 shouston@uschess.org
Director of Business Operations Judy Misner ext. 126 jmisner@uschess.org
Tournament Director Certification Judy Misner ext. 126 jmisner@uschess.org
Membership Services Supervisor Cheryle Bruce ext. 147 cbruce@uschess.org
Mailing Lists/Membership Assoc. Traci Lee ext. 143 tlee@uschess.org
Membership Associate Joe Wright ext. 125 joewright@uschess.org
Membership Associate Abel Howard ext. 146 ahoward@uschess.org
Director of Communications
& Affiliate Relations Joan DuBois ext. 123 jdubois@uschess.org
Correspondence Chess Alex Dunne cchess@uschess.org
Fundraising/Sponsorship Joan DuBois ext. 123 jdubois@uschess.org
National Education Consultant Jerry Nash jnash@uschess.org
OTB Ratings/FIDE Walter Brown ext. 142 wbrown@uschess.org
Computer Consultant Mike Nolan ext. 188 mnolan@uschess.org
IT Director & Webmaster Phillip R. Smith ext.134 philsmith@uschess.org
CL_03-2012_masthead_JP_r1_chess life 2/1/2012 7:02 PM Page 2
Chess Life March 2012 3 uschess.org
March on uschess.org
Spring Grand Prix
As the weather begins
to warm up, Grand Prix
tournaments across the
country take off. Look for
coverage of the Eastern
Class (Sturbridge, March 2-4), the Western Class (Agoura Hills, March 9-11),
the Mid-America Open (St. Louis, March 16-18) and the 2012 Marchand Open
(Rochester, March 31-April 1).
Contributors
Al Lawrence
(First Moves, p. 10) is a former
executive director of both USCF
and the World Chess Hall of
Fame. His latest book with GM
Lev Alburt, Chess for the Gifted
and Busy, can soon be previewed
at www.chess withlev.com.
Jamaal Abdul-Alim
(Cover Story, p. 16) is a
journalist and chess teacher
in Washington, D.C.
WIM Beatriz Marinello
(Womens World Champ, p. 26)
is a past president of the USCF,
as well as a former scholastic
coordinator for the USCF. She
is currently webmaster for
uschesstrust.com and is active
in chess-in-education in the
Harlem portion of New York City.
Dr. Alexey Root, WIM
(College Chess, p. 32) is the
author of The Living Chess Game:
Fine Arts Activities for Kids 9-14
(Libraries Unlimited, Santa
Barbara, California; 2011) and
a frequent contributor for Chess
Life and Chess Life Online.
GM Robert Hess (U.S. Chess
League, p. 38) is, at age 20, one
of our youngest grandmasters.
He wrote about the 2010 Olympiad
for the January 2011 Chess Life.
New to New to Chess
If youre just getting started in chess or have a friend who is just dipping
in to the game, check out our New to Chess? section on uschess.org. It
features a number of brand new videos hosted by Kacie Marie on castling,
en passant, the value of the pieces and more.
Action at the World Chess Hall of Fame
Look for updates on performances and new exhibits at the World Chess Hall of
Fame in St. Louis, including thoughts by CLO editor Jennifer Shahade on Liliya
Lifanovas performance of Anatomy is Destiny, a chess-inspired installation.
Americans in Iceland
GM Maurice Ashley plans a comeback to
chess in the Reykjavik Open (March 6-13),
a favorite destination for American chess
players. GMs Yury Shulman, Robert Hess
and IM Irina Krush will also be participating.
Find updates on CLO.
CL_03-2012_CLO_AKF_r6 (1)_chess life 2/13/12 9:23 AM Page 3
Columns
9 LOOKS AT BOOKS
A Loser in the Game of Life
By Dr. Frank Brady
12 CHESS TO ENJOY
Tranquility
By GM Andy Soltis
14 SOLITAIRE CHESS
The Classic Bishop Sacrifice
By Bruce Pandolfini
46 BACK TO BASICS
Resisting the Kitchen Sink
By GM Lev Alburt
44 ENDGAME LAB
Database Progress, Part 2
By GM Pal Benko
Departments
3 PREVIEW
6 COUNTERPLAY
8 USCF AFFAIRS
10 FIRST MOVES
52 TOURNAMENT LIFE
70 CLASSIFIEDS
71 SOLUTIONS
On The Cover
GM Gregory Kaidanov scored
a solid tournament win at the
38th Eastern Open in Washington,
D.C. Our report begins on page
16 and includes a number of
pages of opening analysis for
the openings wonks out there.
Chess Life is grateful to Ari
Wasserman of njycamps.org
and the Jewish Community
Center of Mid-Westchester,
jccmw.org, for their help in
arranging our photo shoot
with Kaidanov.
Cover photo by Caroline Kaye
4 Chess Life March 2012
March Chess Life
uschess.org
16 COVER STORY
The Caissa Protocol
By Jamaal Abdul-Alim
In an election year, it is refreshing to see innovations coming out
of Washington, D.C.
26 WOMENS WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP
GM Hou Yifan Retains Her Title
By WIM Beatriz Marinello, FIDE Vice President
2.5 billion potential fans cant be wrong.
32 COLLEGE CHESS
The 2011 Pan American Intercollegiate Championships
By Dr. Alexey Root, WIM
Winning Streak: UT Dallas Champs Again.
38 U.S. CHESS LEAGUE
A League With Destiny
By GM Robert Hess
The underdog New York Knights defeat the top-seeded Chicago Blaze.
P
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CL_03-2012_TOC_AKF_r6_chess life 2/13/12 9:39 AM Page 4
2012 Membership Options
Choose Between Premium and Regular USCF Memberships
PREMIUM MEMBERSHIP
PRINTED COPY of Chess Life (monthly)
or Chess Life for Kids (bimonthly) plus
all other benefits of regular membership.
REGULAR MEMBERSHIP
Online-only access to Chess Life or
Chess Life for Kids; TLA Newsletter will
be mailed to you (Adults: bimonthly;
Scholastic: 3 per year)
WHAT YOU GET AS A
REGULAR USCF MEMBER:
The right to play in USCF-sanctioned
tournaments and be assigned an official rating
Access to member-only content on
uschess.org, including our USCF forum
discussion group. (9)
Online access to Chess Life
& Chess Life for Kids.
WHAT YOU GET AS A
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REGULAR USCF MEMBERSHIP RATES
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CL_01-2012_membership_ad_AKF_r8_Layout 1 12/8/11 1:32 AM Page 1
Tenacious
The biographical article Tenacious in
the January issue captured Arthur Feuer-
steins essence; Arthur was my co-worker
and teammate in the Commercial Chess
League of New York during his second
career as a computer programmer. Almost
daily, Arthur would enthusiastically play
lunch hour speed chess games, sand-
wich in one hand, the other hand
available for clock punching. He offered
me advice not only in chess theory, but
in chess psychology as well. You have to
remember to kibbitz your games, he
would often say in preparation for a big
tournament. By that he meant that it is
helpful to walk away from the board and
come back in the role of observer, seeing
the position as if it were new.
Ive forgotten the combinations he
devised in his inevitable victories against
me, but I sure remember his jokes. My
favorite chess award was the title of
grandmaster of fast food. Arthur granted
me this one New Years Day, after we ate
in a nearby hamburger joint between
rounds. I had assured Art that such din-
ing establishments in fact close twice a
year, but are open on January 1.
I plan to see Arthur kibbitzing his game
at a future chess tournament, knowing he
will have one of two expressions on his
face. Either it will be a look of concern,
which will mean hes distracted by a
tough board struggle, or a relaxed look,
which will signify that the game result is
all but decided.
Sherman Boim
Brooklyn, New York
I have read Chess Life for over 40 years,
but dont remember ever feeling so over-
whelmed by a story as I did by Tenacious,
the bio on Arthur Feuerstein. Al Lawrences
writing gave a very human element to the
struggles of Feuerstein, both on and off the
board.
I had been ignorant of Arthurs chess
career, even though the article described
his triumphs during the 1950s battling
the likes of Sammy Reshevsky, Arthur
Bisguier and Bobby Fischer. I was more
intrigued by his tenacity off the board in
the wooing and winning of his future wife
Alice, also competing against fellow chess
masters Anthony Saidy and Edmar Med-
nis for her hand.
Its comforting to know that after a car
accident severely injured both Alice and
Arthur that they are recovered and still liv-
ing happily together. Please publish more
articles like this to showcase both a
players chess career along with their life
outside of chess.
Gary Colvin
via e-mail
From uschess.org forums
Im a long-time chess player (starting in
the Fischer boom). I was rated over 2000
for about 25 years, peaking in the 2100s
when I was about 35. Now that Im 55,
Im having problems getting my expert rat-
ing back. I feel like I know more about the
game than I used to, I have better tools (no
software in the 70s and 80s!) and Im
playing more often. My good games are
better than they used to be but Im also
making more mistakes in critical positions.
Is anyone else going through this slow
rating decline after 50? Does anyone have
any ideas on improving focus and getting
back to their peak ratings after 50?
Flying Rook
Sample forum response:
What kind of physical shape are you in?
As you get older the stamina you have for
a game diminishes. Try to strengthen your
cardiovascular fitness by walking or jog-
ging. Work with light weights. Watch your
diet. Then you will be able to wear out the
kids with your superior experience.
Chess is more dynamic today than 20 or
30 years ago. Start a regimen of doing
tactical puzzles several times a week to
exercise your mind. Revamp your open-
ings; new computer driven developments
have made many lines that were popular
20 years ago seem quaint. Pick up copies
of John Watsons Secrets of Modern Chess
Strategy and Chess Strategy in Action to see
how chess has changed over the last cou-
ple of decades. Look at some of the games
of the present generation of top players to
see what is popular and how risk driven
they are even in positional openings.
There is no reason why you cannot regain
your old form. But you have to be willing
to work and take some lumps.
tmagchesspgh
Send your letters to letters@uschess.org.
If Chess Life publishes your letter, you
will be sent a copy of Test, Evaluate and
Improve Your Chess (see ad to the left).
Letters are subject to editing for content
and length.
Counterplay
uschess.org
Corrections
February, 2012 Chess Life, USCF
Affairs, Bob Donaldsons birth date
and age should have been listed as
November 20, 1921, age 89 on Novem-
ber 2, 2011. In the photo, it was his
grandson Collin Crowe, not his son
Robert. Thank you to reader John
Norman.
In the January 2012 Chess Life,
Endgame Lab, Horowitz should
be Horwitz. Also, there knights
should of course be three knights.
Thank you to IM Anthony Saidy.
CL_03-2012_counterplay_JP_r5_chess life 2/10/2012 10:21 AM Page 6
Tracing the life of the troubled chess genius
from brilliant beginning to shocking endgame.
Bobby Fischer Against the World is a documentary feature
exploring the tragic and bizarre life of the late chess master
Bobby Fischer. The drama of Bobby Fischer's career was undeni-
able, from his troubled childhood, to his rock star status as World
Champion and Cold War icon, to his life as a fugitive on the run.
This lm explores one of the most infamous and mysterious
characters of the 20th century.
In 1972, an epic chess match took place in Iceland between
representatives of the two great super-powers of the world:
Bobby vs. Boris. Boris was backed by the Mighty Soviet Union,
with late night phone calls coming from his handlers in Moscow,
telling him what his next move should be.
Meanwhile, Bobby stood alone against the might of the oppos-
ing nation. But, Bobby was not exactly alone. The Americans did
not need to tell him what moves to make on the chessboard.
Bobby already knew how to do that. Rather, what the Americans
needed to do was somehow to get him to sit down at the board
and play the game.
Here is the story of that titanic struggle: One half of the world
trying to get Bobby to play, while the other half was trying to
defeat him assuming that he did play.
DVD0004MV $29.95
1.800.388.KING (5464)
www.USCFSales.com
All Purchases Benet
e US Chess Federation
kunnlng tlme: ! hour 33 mlnutes - P8O ocumentory ll/ms
03-2012_USCFSales_inside1_Layout 1 2/3/2012 2:58 PM Page 1
USCF Affairs March
USCF EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHT ABEL HOWARD
Position: Membershiip Associate
This month we shine our spotlight on Membership Associate Abel Howard, who
assists our USCF members with various enquiries. Abel started playing chess at the
age of ten; knowing the game is always a value-added asset in our associates. Abel,
who currently counts his USCF experience in months, is majoring in accounting in
college. He plans on a career as a forensic accountant and certified public accountant.
He is minoring in Spanish and is available part time to help our Spanish-speaking-
only members. As you might imagine, as a full-time student and part-time employee
his spare time is limited, but with what time he does have he enjoys racquetball.
BENEFACTOR MEMBERSHIP
Help promote American chess by becoming
a USCF Benefactor Member. Benefactor
Membership includes life membership,
a special membership card, and recognition
on a benefactor page of our website and
periodically in Chess Life. The cost is $3,000,
or $1,500 to existing life members.
Half the funds collected will go to the USCF Life
Member Assets Fund and half to assist USCF
operations. Become a Benefactor at uschess.org
(click on "join/renew"), by phone at 1-800-903-
8723, or by mail to USCF, PO Box 3967,
Crossville, TN 38557. There is also a direct
link for a life membership benefactor upgrade.
The USCF Mission
USCF is a not-for-profit membership organization devoted to
extending the role of chess in American society. USCF promotes
the study and knowledge of the game of chess, for its own sake
as an art and enjoyment, but also as a means for the improve-
ment of society. It informs, educates, and fosters the development
of players (professional and amateur) and potential players. It
encourages the development of a network of institutions devoted
to enhancing the growth of chess, from local clubs to state and
regional associations, and it promotes chess in American soci-
ety. To these ends, USCF offers a monthly magazine, as well as
targeted publications to its members and others. It supervises the
organization of the U.S. Chess Championship, an open tournament
held every summer, and other national events. It offers a wide
range of books and services to its members and others at prices
consistent with the benefits of its members. USCF serves as the
governing body for chess in the United States and as a partici-
pant in international chess organizations and projects. It is
structured to ensure effective democratic procedures in accord
with its bylaws and laws of the state of Illinois.
BECOME A BENEFACTOR
BE A USCF BENEFACTOR!
Help promote American chess by becoming
a USCF Benefactor Member.
Benefactor Membership includes Life Membership, a special
membership card, and recognition on a benefactor page of our
website and periodically in Chess Life. The cost is $3,000,
or $1,500 to existing Life Members. Half the funds collected
will go to the USCF Life Member Assets Fund and half to assist
USCF operations. Become a Benefactor at uschess.org, by phone
at 1-800-903-8723, or by mail to USCF, PO Box 3967,
Crossvi l l e TN 38557.
THANKS TO OUR BENEFACTORS!
USCF BENEFACTOR MEMBERS AS OF DECEMBER 7, 2011:
JOSEPH BOYLE (TX)
JEFFREY DAVIDSON (CA)
MARTIN DEAN (VA)
BILL GOICHBERG (NY)
DAVID KOCHMAN (NH)
CHRISTOPHER LEWIS (VA)
PARKER MONTGOMERY (VT)
HAROLD TORRANCE (PA)
CHARLES UNRUH (OK)
EDWARD WYCOFF (CA)
PROMOTE AMERICAN CHESS
CL_03-2012_USCF_Affairs_AKF_r6_chess life 2/13/12 10:32 AM Page 8
uschess.org Chess Life March 2012 9
Looks at Books
IN MARCH OF LAST YEAR, I RECEIVED A
letter from Zita Rajcsanyi, the young woman
whom Bobby Fischer had described in 1992
as his fianc. She outlined some details
about her relationship with him, and quoted
from some of his love letters to her, which
included passages that she described as
expressions of his deep inner battles with
himself. The letters had been authenticated.
Zita Rajcsanyi was Bobbys first love,
although hed had some previous infatuations
and liaisons, and his correspondence to her
provides an emotional profile that reflects
all of the major elements of their relationship:
his affection and jealousy, an uncharacter-
istic willingness to compromise, and his
desire to marry her and have children.
As described earlier in this book, when
Zita arrived in California in 1992 to meet
Bobby for the first time, she was seventeen
and he was forty-nine. He was my idol. It
was like a teenage girl having a crush on a
rock star. I worshiped him. Bobby recipro-
cated. Adorable Zita, he called her, and
referred to her as his fianc, but at that
time he could not allow himselfperhaps
out of fear of being rejected, or some inabil-
ity to actually express a deeper feelingto
come right out and tell her he loved her. He
wrote that he regretted his inability to say
the three not-so-simple words.
Other than Bobbys anti-Semitic rants and
his jealous glances at Zita, their first weeks
together were close to idyllic. He invited her to
join him on a trip to visit his mother, wanting
the two to meet because he hoped his mom
would give Zita her imprimatur and welcome
Zitas being his future wife. That may have
been the real reason they traveled north to Palo
Alto to see Regina, not necessarily to discuss
her medical problems. Although they were
together for just a few hours, Zita was more
than impressed with Regina: I loved her!
she said. She was brilliant and so sharp!
During the 1992 Fischer-Spassky revenge
match, the media referred to Zita as the
person whod convinced Bobby to come out
of retirement. According to Zita it was mainly
accurate, although highly exaggerated, as
was the rumor that they were engaged to be
married. When she left Montenegro in the
middle of the match to play in a tourna-
ment in South America (her travel expenses
paid for by Bozidar Vasiljevic), Bobby briefly
took up with a young Serbian woman. Later,
the woman boasted to the press that she was
pregnant with Bobbys child, but in a short
while retracted the statement and admitted
that it was a hoax. Bobby heard the news on
BBC radio, to which he was almost always
listening. He called the woman in Serbia to
verify the fakery, and then wrote to Zita in
a form of a self-justified exoneration.
When Bobby moved to Budapest the fol-
lowing year, he continued to hope that he and
Zita would eventually marry, even though
she was then seeing another man and had
become pregnant by him, not Bobby. Bobby
couldnt believe or accept that his passion
wasnt reciprocal on Zitas part. He begged
her to reconsider, telling her that she was the
love of his life, that he was willing to marry
her before or after she had the other mans
child, and that if she agreed, hed never let
her go. He apologized in writing for the pride,
arrogance and cowardice that hed displayed
in their relationship. He was also sorry that
hed behaved like an ass with Zitas sister
when he asked if she might be available to
marry if Zita was not.
Zita refused to acquiesce to his marriage
proposals. Although she somewhat reluc-
tantly agreed to see him about a dozen times
during the eight years that he lived in
Budapest, each meeting became more difficult
for her because of his obsessive anti-Semitism.
Once, while the two walked down a street
together, Bobby pointed to some graffiti on a
wall, and in what might be evidence of his
deteriorating mental condition, claimed that
it was a secret message being sent to him by
the Jews. When Zita pointed out that what
hed said wasnt logical or rational, he replied,
No, its true! Its true!
Bobby Fischer, a man who rarely resigned
a game of chess, finally had to realize that
he had to move on to a different position. The
greatest chess player who ever lived, the
man who Garry Kasparov said achieved
perfection, was unable to win this game of
securing romantic love. Perhaps the most
poignant and self-aware comment Bobby
ever made to Zita, or to anyone else, was Im
such a loser in the game of life. .
A Loser in the Game of Life
Endgame: Bobby Fischer's
Remarkable Rise and Fall by Frank Brady.
Random House, 2011, 304 pages 15.95 from
uscfsales.com (catalog number B0022RH)
By DR. FRANK BRADY
DR. FRANK BRADYS ENDGAME WAS THE BOOK OF THE YEAR IN 2011.
HERE IS AN EXCERPT FROM THE JUST-RELEASED
PAPERBACK EDITIONS NEW AFTERWORD.
This edition contains a brand new Afterword offering additional insights and information about Fischers life. Brady reflects on the
variety of responses he received when Endgame was initially published, both positive and negative. A particularly exciting aspect of
the Afterword is new details about Fischers relationship with Zita Rajcsanyi, including excerpts from love letters that he sent to her.
These letters illuminate not only Fischers affection for Zita, but also his inner battles with overwhelming jealousy and insecurity:
See Chess Lifes review of Endgame in the February 2011 issue, which includes an excerpt and photos.
CL_03-2012_Books_AKF_r6.qxp_chess life 2/10/12 12:21 PM Page 9
First Moves
Pieces Fit for a King
By AL LAWRENCE
IN 1831, A TENANT FARMER NAMED
MALCOLM MACLEOD was digging in a
sand dune in a place called a bay of Uig
on the Isle of Lewis, in the Outer Hebrides,
a group of islands 120 miles north of
Scotland. His spade struck a stone box,
what he likely called a kist. According to
one legend, on opening the chest, Macleod
was so mesmerized by the lifelike carvings
inside that he was at first afraid to touch
them, believing them to be elves, gnomes,
or pygmy spritesstill the stuff of Celtic
legend on his isolated archipelago.
If thats true, the poor Scotsman recov-
ered his sense of practicality in time to
snatch up the exquisite, centuries-buried
miniature armiescarved from walrus
ivory except for a few pawns fashioned
from whales teeth. In all there were 78
chess pieces, the tallest just over four
inches, from at least four distinct but
incomplete sets, plus an ornate belt buckle
and 14 round game pieces. Macleod sold
them to a local collector but seems to
have received no life-changing windfall,
since his family suffered eviction from
their lands some years later. That seems
an inequitable result, for he had unearthed
one of the most important discoveries of
medieval artifacts ever made.
Significance beyond chess
Indeed, nearly everything about the Isle
of Lewis set is disputed except its impor-
tance. A committee of curators of the
British Museum, which quickly came to
own 67 of the chess pieces, rates the acqui-
sition among its Top 10 Treasures. In
2010 the BBC included the Lewis acqui-
sition in its series A History of the World
in 100 Objects.
Now, for the very first time, a large
ensemble of the Lewis collection has trav-
eled outside the United Kingdom. The Game
of Kings: Medieval Ivory Chessmen from
the Isle of Lewis, featuring 34 pieces, runs
until April 22 at The Cloisters Museum in
Manhattan, New York. Curator Barbara
Boehm is in charge of the exhibition. The
Lewis pieces are such magnificent works of
art, she said. They are the largest trove of
medieval chess pieces, and they have so
enriched what we are able to say about art
and life in the middle ages.
Retrograde analysis
Its agreed that sometime between 1150
and 1200 A.D., carvers produced this
series of masterpieces of their art. Chess
was then a newly popular fashion that
had swept the royal courts of Europe. The
game had become the pastime de rigueur
of any self-respecting knight between
jousts. These pieces, however, were fit for
a kingor someone else of extreme wealth
and importance. So how did they wind up
in a sandbank?
Eminent scholars conjecture that a trad-
ing ship sailing from Trondheim, Norway,
a center for such masterly ivory-carving,
was making its way to wealthy Viking set-
tlements, such as Dublin, on the east
coast of Ireland, when a shipwreck interred
the tiny battalions in the sand for nearly
700 years. But why then are incomplete
armies mixed together in one box? Was
that the result of a hasty salvaging of the
sinking treasure? Another theory involves
the confession of a thief who murdered a
cabin boy in the 1600s. Or did war account
for plundering and theft? Without records,
the centuries keep their secrets.
Bishops of opposite origin
Two distinguished chess leaders from
Iceland claim a different provenance. Gud-
mundur Thorarinsson, former president of
the Icelandic Chess Federation (ICF) and
chairman of the organizing committee for
the 1972 Fischer-Spassky championship,
and Einar Einarsson, another former ICF
president, claim the origin of the Lewis set
for Iceland. A key point in their argument
is the Lewis sets use of bishops rather than
their runner predecessors. We are not
aware of any nation that used the bishop as
a chess piece around 1200 other than the
Icelanders, Thorarinsson told me.
One Lewis piece I was sorry to see lose
out in the evolution of the chess army is the
berserker, a rook depicted as a warrior so
hyped for battle that he bites the top of his
shield in anticipationreminiscent of the
pre-combat scenes in the film Braveheart.
However they came to rest in a sand-
bank, we now have a chance to see the
Lewis chessmen in their perfect setting, the
grand and ancient Romanesque Hall at The
Cloisters, and to imagine that more than 800
years ago, in just such a setting, they were
allowed to play their last game. .
Photos (left to right): Pawn, Berserker Rook, Knight, Bishop, King from behind, King, and Queenthe meaning of her hand-to-face
gesture is debated by scholars but certainly indicates concern. When first found, some pieces still showed a red stain, probably des-
ignating the black army. The Cloisters exhibit arranges one grouping in the final position of the 1972 Fischer-Spassky match.
Getting there: The Cloisters is
located at 99 Margaret Corbin Drive,
Fort Tryon Park, in Manhattan,
New York. For information, call: 212-
923-3700. Resources: For further
discussions of the Lewis set, theo-
ries of its origins and links to Museum
blogs and the Icelandic theory of ori-
gin, go to www.chesswithlev.com.
"
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CL_03-2012_First_Moves_AKF_r6_chess life 2/10/12 9:27 AM Page 10
LETTER OF NTENT
4 /ra|se /ar Iaarraa
In future support of the work of the U.S. Chess Trust, I want to provide for future
generations and to ensure the continuity of services by the U.S. Chess Trust.
Therefore,
I have made provision I will make provision
to support the U.S. Chess Trust by:
making a bequest or endowment provision in my Will
creating a charitable remainder or lead trust naming
the U.S. Chess Trust as a beneficiary.
establishing an endowment or special fund at the
U.S. Chess Trust.
directing the trustees or directors of my foundation
to continue beyond my lifetime making an annual
gift to the U.S. Chess Trust.
Making an outright gift to the U.S. Chess Trust during
my lifetime in the sum of $_____________.
This Letter of Intent represents my commitment to the work of the U.S. Chess Trust.
It does not represent a legal obligation and may be changed by me at any time.
Whatever the amount of your gift, when you leave a legacy for the future of the
U.S. Chess Trust, you are an important part of the Promise for Tomorrow.
Please send with your name, address, phone, and email contact information
and email Barbara DeMaro at bduscf@aol.com (845-527-1167)
*Please note that there is a required amount in order to be listed as a Future Legacy Donor.
Write or send an email to Barbara DeMaro, bduscf@aol.com for this amount. Donations
to the U.S. Chess Trust are tax-deductible. A 501(c)(3) organization. BD:08/03
NATIONAL
OPEN
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IVIERA
adpage1_Layout 1 2/10/2012 4:27 PM Page 11
Everyone knows White has a natural
advantage when a game begins: He makes
the first move.
But White also gets to play the second
most important move of a gamethe one
that comes immediately after the first
time control.
He can make the first tranquil move
after all the chaos and confusion, said
Bent Larsen, who considered this a sig-
nificant edge for White.
Tranquility means you actually get to
think about your next moveand not
rely on intuition, nervous energy, knee-
jerk reactions or whatever you did during
the time scramble that just ended. You get
to think calmly.
Quietude
GM Luke McShane (FIDE 2664, ENG)
GM Wesley So (FIDE 2673, PHI)
Wijk aan Zee 2011
After 40. ... Rf7
White had safeguarded his king and
steadily improved the position of his
queen and rook since move 30. Now that
hes reached the time control he had the
luxury ... to get a cup of coffee.
Once that was accomplished White
examined forcing moves, such as 41.
Rg5+. Whats more he could recheck his
analysiswhich he did three times.
Yes, he confirmed, the check wins after
41. ... Kh8 42. Qd8+, 41. ... Kf8 42. Qd8+
Qe8 43. Rg8+ and, prettiest of all, after 41.
... Kh6 42. Qd1!.
The ability to study the position helped
him in another way. Black also had time
to recognize the strength of 41. Rg5+ so
he resigned before White had a chance to
play it.
Of course, White had the benefit of a
winning position when the time control
ended. But if the chances are anywhere
close to unclear, the value of playing the
first post-control move remains signifi-
cant. It can be as important as winning
the coin toss in an overtime football game,
the NFLs version of a second time control.
Back in the heyday of 40-in-two-and-
a-half hours time controls, the 41st move
carried extra weight because it was the
first opportunity to adjourn. Mikhail
Botvinnik regarded sealing a move to be
a powerful weapon. In his 1951 world
championship match with David Bron-
stein he sealed almost every time he had
an opportunityand saved his title by
outplaying the challenger in three even
endgames.
The days of the sealed move envelope
are more or less gone. But move 41 can
still claim to be the most important point
in the game. In the 2010 U.S. Champi-
onship 10 of the 60 decisive games ended
at move 40 or 41. In one of the sections
of the 2011 Championship it was five of
the 12 decisive games.
In many ways, the ability to play Whites
41st move can be more important than to
play his first. After all, there is no move
White can make in the initial position
that assures him of a serious edge. But
he may have a killer at move 41if he has
time to think about it.
Composure
GM Teimour Radjabov (FIDE 2656, AZE)
GM Alexei Shirov (FIDE 2736, LAT)
Linares 2004
(see diagram top of next column)
If you were White and had only had sec-
ond left, you wouldnt be able to see how
dangerous 41. ... Re2+ or 41. ...
After 40. ... Bb5
Rxh2, not to mention 41. ... Ke3 or 41. ...
Kxf3, were.
And you wouldnt have time to evalu-
ate a natural move like 41. Rd2 and the
consequences of 41. ... Rxd2 42. Kxd2
Kxf3.
But since it was move 41 White could
afford to go into a deep think. He found
the stunning 41. e5+!!.
He was able to calculate winning vari-
ations such as 41. ... Ke3 42. exf6! Re2+
(42. ... Kxd4 43. f7) 43. Kd1 Kxd4 44. f7
Kd3! 45. Ra1! when he can queen safely.
The main point of 41. e5+!! was to neu-
tralize the enemy king, and White
eventually won after 41. ... Kxe5 42. Rd2!
Rxd2 43. Kxd2 Kf4 44. Rc3!.
After 44. Rc3
White will bring his king to f2 and drive
the black king back with check. He won
on move 78.
-+-+-+-+
zp-+-+rmk-
-zpp+q+-+
+-+-+R+p
-+-+-+-zP
+-+Q+-zP-
P+-+-zP-+
+-+-+-mK-
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zp-+-+-+-
-+-+-zp-+
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+-+-+-+-
Tranquility
By GM Andy Soltis
Question: Which move in chess is like the coin toss in an NFL overtime game?
Chess to Enjoy
CL_03-2012_soltis_JP_r8_chess life 2/8/2012 4:56 PM Page 12
Experienced players know that there is
a naturally qualitative difference between
the moves just before and just after a
time control. The ones just before are
likely to be prone to error and the prod-
uct of nerves. More blunders seem to be
made on move 40, or 38 or 39, than on
any other move.
A good policy to follow during the last
moves of a time control is: Avoid moves
that you cant calculate with 100 per-
cent accuracy. Rely instead on solid,
do-no-harm moves.
One of Botvinniks personal rules was
to avoid changing the pawn structure
just before move 40. Thats a bit extreme.
Heres how todays grandmasters make
progress in the run-up to move 40.
Coolness
GM Alexei Shirov (FIDE 2740, LAT)
GM Dmitry Jakovenko (FIDE 2711, RUS)
Foros 2008
White has a pretty big edge because of
his iron control of the d-file. But he needs
weaknesses to attack, and the most nat-
ural targets, like the f7-square, are well
defended.
So White began to expand slowly with
33. Rd5 and then 33. ... Qc7 34. g4! Rh8
35. g5. His aim was to drive the bishop off
the long a1-h8 diagonal and create mat-
ing chances on the h-file.
After 32. ... Qe5
But he made most of his progress with
non-forcing moves: 35. ... Bb2 36. Kf1!
Qb7 37. Ke2 Qc7 and then 38. Qg4 Bd4
39. Kd3.
Whites king is actually safer on d3
than it was on the kingside. The players
reached the magic move 40 with 39. ...
Be5 40. f4 Bd6.
After 40. ... Bd6
Black has avoided disaster on the h-file
but now his bishop is a problem. But his
biggest problem is that its move 41 and
that means White can take his time
searching for the knockout blow, linger-
ing over a pleasant decision between two
winning lines.
He saw that 41. Kc2, threatening Rxd6,
should do the job. But he also spotted 41.
Qg2!, which prepares both a nasty check
on b2 and the exploiting of the h-file with
42. Rh1. He chose the queen move and
won swiftly, 41. ... a6 42. Qb2+ Kg8 43.
Kc2 Rh2+ 44. R5d2 Rxd2+ 45. Rxd2 b5.
After 45. ... b5
Thanks to reaching the time control,
White could calculate with confidence.
Here the move that suggests itself is 46.
Qf6!. Both players saw that the threat of
Rh2 and mate on h8 is decisive, and
Black resigned on the spot. .
-+r+-+-+
zp-+-trpmk-
-zp-+-vlp+
+-zp-wq-+-
P+L+-+-+
+P+-zPQzP-
-+-tR-zP-+
+-+R+-mK-
-+-+-+-tr
zp-wq-trpmk-
-zp-vl-+p+
+-zpR+-zP-
P+L+-zPQ+
+P+KzP-+-
-+-+-+-+
+-+R+-+-
-+-+-+k+
+-wq-trp+-
p+-vl-+p+
+pzp-+-zP-
P+L+-zP-+
+P+-zP-+-
-wQKtR-+-+
+-+-+-+-
Forty-first
Okay, lets see how good you are
at the 41st move. Each of the follow-
ing six positions arose after Black
made his 40th. Take your timeas
you could after reaching a time con-
troland try to find the winning line
of play. This will typically mean the
forced win of a decisive amount of
material, such as a rook or minor
piece. For solutions see page 71.
Problem I
GM Rustam Kasimdzhanov
GM Levon Aronian
White to play
Problem IV
GM Alex Fishbein
GM Yury Shulman
White to play
Problem II
GM Artur Yusupov
GM Michael Adams
White to play
Problem V
GM Illya Nyzhnyk
GM Murtas Kazhgaleyev
White to play
Problem III
GM Sergey Movsesian
GM Mathias Womacka
White to play
Problem VI
GM Jonathan Rowson
GM John Emms
White to play
-+-+-+-mk
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-+-+-+P+
wQ-+-+-+K
-+-+-+-+
+-wQ-+-vlk
-+-zP-+-+
+-+-zp-+p
-+-+-+-+
+-zpq+-+P
-+-+-vLPmK
+-+-+-+-
-+-+-trk+
+-vl-wQ-zp-
p+q+-+p+
+-sN-zPl+-
-+ptR-+-zP
zP-+-+-+-
-zPP+-+-+
+-mKR+-+-
-+-+-+-wq
+p+-+kzp-
ptr-+-zpn+
+-+p+N+-
-+-+-+Q+
+-zP-+-zP-
PzP-+-zPK+
+-+-tR-+-
-+-+-wqk+
+-tR-+-vl-
p+lzP-sn-+
+-+-+-wQ-
-zp-+-+-zp
+-sN-+P+-
PzP-+-+PzP
+-+-+-+K
-+-wQ-+-+
tr-+-+pmk-
-+-zp-+p+
+p+-zp-+-
-+-snP+-+
wq-sn-+-+-
PtR-+-tR-+
mK-+-+L+-
CL_03-2012_soltis_JP_r8_chess life 2/10/2012 2:28 PM Page 13
One of the most studied of all chess
ploys is the classic bishop sacrifice,
also known as the Greek gift sacrifice or
Grecos sacrifice. Supposedly, Gioachino
Greco (maybe 1600-1634) liked to set up
and play such bold strokes, though its
hard to say what Greco really did play in
his own games. The shot and subsequent
attack takes place against castled king-
side structure, beginning with either
Bxh7+ or Bxh2+. It doesnt always work,
but when it does, as in Kraicer versus
Dyment (Black), a correspondence game
played in 1952, mate sometimes follows.
Follow the following moves and youll see
what its all about. The opening was a
double queen-pawn game, and the first
moves naturally were 1. d4 d5:
Semi-Slav, Meran System (D48)
Kraicer
Dyment
Correspondence 1952
Your starting position
Now make sure you have the above
position set up on your chessboard. As
you play through the remaining moves in
this game, use a piece of paper to cover
the article, exposing Whites next move
only after trying to guess it. If you guess
correctly, give yourself the par score.
Sometimes points are also rewarded for
second-best moves, and there may be
bonus pointsor deductionsfor other
moves and variations. Note that ** means
that the note to Blacks move is over and
Whites move is in the next line.**
2. c4 Par Score 5
White pressures d5. But you get full
credit for the alternatives: 2. Nc3, 2. Bg5,
2. Bf4, 2. e3, 2. e4, 2. f4, 2. Nf3. Maybe
were being a bit generous with 2. e4.
2. c6
Black solidifies the d5-pawn.**
3. Nc3 Par Score 5
More pressure on d5. Accept full credit
for 3. Nf3 or 3. cxd5.
3. Nf6
4. e3 Par Score 5
Once again, accept full credit for play-
ing either 4. Nf3 or 4. cxd5.
4. e6
5. Nf3 Par Score 5
Receive only 3 points part credit for 5.
cxd5 exd5. This is a good version of the
Exchange Variation for Black, as the c1-
bishop is hemmed in by the pawn at e3.
5. Nbd7
Weve arrived at a standard position
in the Semi-Slav (black pawns at c6, d5
and e6).**
6. Bd3 Par Score 5
Accept full credit for 6. Qc2.
6. dxc4
Black figures that White loses a tempo
with two consecutive moves by his
bishop.**
7. Bxc4 Par Score 4
Tempi notwithstanding, White recap-
tures, partly to save his bishop, partly to
restore material equality. He now has
two pawns in the center that are capable
of advancing.
7. b5
Black drives the bishop back and
vacates b7 for his own bishop.**
8. Bd3 Par Score 4
This enters the main line. Also seen
on occasion are 8. Bb3 and 8. Be2 (take
full credit for either).
8. a6
Black protects b5, readying for the
advance ... c6-c5. That doesnt mean its
going to come to that.**
9. e4 Par Score 5
The advance of the king-pawn is more
aggressive than 9. 0-0, which garners
only 4 points part credit.
9. Be7
This is a non-theoretical move, which
has rightly disappeared from tournament
play. Correct is 9. ... c5 to attack the
White center.**
10. e5 Par Score 5
By attacking the knight, White gains
time, space, and attacking hope.
10. Nd5
11. Nxd5 Par Score 5
White exchanges knights. This leads
to a stabilization of the central pawn con-
figuration. Black obtains a bad queen-
bishop, reminiscent of variations in cer-
tain lines of the French Defense.
11. cxd5
By taking this way, Black keeps his
bad bishop but avoids a backward pawn
at c6, which would otherwise be a trou-
blesome target.**
12. Bd2 Par Score 5
White plays a quiet move, mainly
designed to develop and prevent check at
a5 or b4. He could of course castle (full
credit), but he wants to see what Black
does with his king.
12. 0-0
rsnlwqkvlntr
zppzp-zppzpp
-+-+-+-+
+-+p+-+-
-+-zP-+-+
+-+-+-+-
PzPP+PzPPzP
tRNvLQmKLsNR
Solitaire Chess
The Classic Bishop Sacrifice
By Bruce Pandolfini
Beware of bishops bearing gifts.
CL_03-2012_pando_JP_r8_chess life 2/8/2012 4:34 PM Page 14
ABCs of Chess
These problems are all related to
key positions in this months game.
In each case, Black is to move. The
answers can be found in Solutions
on page 71.
March Exercise: As you encounter
chess maxims, rules of thumb, or
pieces of advice, enter them in a
developing file. Restate each thought
in your own language, spelling out
when it applies and how reliable it is
as a useful generality. Make sure
you also note limitations to the gen-
eralization, listing each one that
seems relevant. Then create dia-
grams showing the idea and its
failure and affix those positions to
the same section. Keep revisiting
this file on a regular basis and you
have a new way to move on the
improvement of the understanding,
and you dont even have to read
Spinoza.
Problem I
Trapping
Problem IV
Mating net
Problem II
Fork
Problem V
Mating net
Problem III
Mating net
Problem VI
Mating net
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+-+L+-+-
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-+-zp-mk-+
+-+pzp-+-
-+-+-+-+
+-+K+N+-
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+-+-+k+-
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-+-+-+nzp
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-+-+-zP-zP
+-+Q+R+-
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+-+p+-zpk
-+-+l+nzP
+-+-+-mKP
-+-+-+Q+
+-+-+-+-
-+-+-+-tr
+-+-+-+-
-+-+k+-+
+-+-zPp+-
-+-+-mKpwq
+-+-+-+-
-tR-+-wQN+
+-+-+-+-
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+kzp-+-+-
-zp-+-+-+
+-+-+-+-
-+-+-+-wq
+-+-+-+-
-+-+-+Pvl
+-+-wQR+K
This is what White was hoping for. Now
he can institute an attack on the castled
king. Who knows if he was thinking of
Greco, a piece of fried liver, or what.**
13. h4 Par Score 5
White secures g5 and sets up for a
possible Grecos sacrifice at h7. No doubt,
he was in a classic state of mind.
13. f6
Black tries to discourage Ng5. The
advance 13. ... h6 invites the sacrifice
14. Bxh6 gxh6 15. Qd2 Kg7 16. Rh3 and
Rg3+ (2 bonus points). The defense 13. ...
f5 was better, but then Black has to con-
tend with 14. g4 fxg4 15. Ng5 (1 bonus
point).**
14. Ng5! Par Score 6
Anyway! White threatens both e6 and
h7, so Blacks next move is essentially
forced.
14. fxg5
15. Bxh7+! Par Score 6
This second sacrifice is needed to justify
the previous sac. No credit for 15. hxg5 g6
or 15. Qh5 h6; in either case, Black gets
an opportunity to defend himself.
15. Kxh7
More or less forced. If 15. ... Kf7, then
16. Qh5+ g6 17. Qxg6 mate. Or 15. ... Kh8
16. Qh5, threatening 17. Bg6+ Kg8 18.
Qh7 mate. Accept 1 bonus point for each.**
16. hxg5+ Par Score 4
The point of the bishop sac, the h-file
opens with tempo.
16. Kg8
If the king comes up, 16. ... Kg6, he gets
mated after 17. Qh5+ Kf5 18. Qh7+ (1
bonus point) 18. ... g6 19. Qh3+ Ke4 20.
Qe3+ Kf5 21. Qf3 or f4 mate.**
17. Rh8+! Par Score 6
What? A third sacrifice? This one to
bring the queen in with tempo. Accept
only 2 points part credit for 17. Qh5. With
that, Black defends by 17. ... Rf5 and
18. ... Nf8, so White has to take a perpet-
ual by 18. Qh8+ Kf7 19. Qh5+ etc.
17. Kxh8
Declining the rook is no better. If 17. ...
Kf7, then 18. Qh5+ g6 19. Qh7+ Ke8 20.
Qxg6 mate (1 bonus point).**
18. Qh5+ Par Score 5
No credit for 18. g6, which is defended
against by 18. ... Rf5. The attackers
moves have to be made in the right
sequence. So the queen goes first.
18. Kg8
19. g6 Par Score 5
White takes away the escape square at
f7 and threatens mate on the move (1
bonus point).
19. Rf5
Black clears f8 for the king. Of no avail
is 19. ... Nf6 20. exf6 (1 bonus point). Its
nice to have that pawn at e5.**
20. Qh7+ Par Score 5
White combines defense and offense. He
saves his attacked queen with tempo on
the king.
20. Kf8
21. Qh8 mate
A back row mate, a back rank mate, a
rook mate, it all comes to the same thing.
For the record, Black resigned after see-
ing 17. Rh8+. It was a correspondence
game, so saving postage might have been
a factor. .
Read this issue and many back issues
via our virtual online viewer at uschess.
org. Also available are PDF downloads
and .pgn game file downloads.
Total your score to deter-
mine your approximate
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Total Score Approx. Rating
95+ 2400+
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66-80 2000-2199
51-65 1800-1999
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0-05 under 1200
CL_03-2012_pando_JP_r8_chess life 2/10/2012 12:23 PM Page 15
uschess.org
Cover Story
s a longtime tournament player, GM Lawrence C.
Kaufman has won his share of place-based prizes.
But not for nearly half a century has Kauf-
mana Maryland-based professional chess
instructor and co-developer of the Komodo chess
enginewon special prizes like he did at the
38th Eastern Open held here in the nations
capital during the last week of 2011.
Kaufman, whose current rating is 2450, won first, second and
third place for the Brilliancy, Opening Innovation and Best
Played Game, respectively, at the Eastern. The four-section
tournament drew 170 playersincluding this writerfrom
across the nation to downtown D.C.s Westin Hotel.
Kaufman, 64, says the last time he won a special prize for bril-
liancy or best played game in a tournament, it was as a teenager
back in the 1960s at a Maryland Junior Open. Over the lifes-
pan of his chess career, however, he said its been a relative rarity
for players to have an opportunity to win such a variety of
prizes like they did at the Eastern.
Its pretty uncommon, Kaufman told Chess Life. Once in a
while therell be one that offers one prize for best game or bril-
liance, but theres so few of them that I havent won one for almost
half a century.
Kaufman, who finished in tenth place at the Eastern, is
among the many competitors in the tournament who say they
appreciated the chance to win a prize for something other than
being among the top players in a given section.
Its a nice feature, Kaufman said. It does give people some-
thing to play for when theyre out of the running for a regular
cash prize.
And that is exactly one of the things that Eastern Open
organizer Tom Beckman says he had in mind when he added
the special prizes to the tournament when he took over the event
back in 2009.
As an organizer, when I took over the Eastern Open franchise,
my primary goal was to hold an exciting, successful tournament
where every player has a chance to win a prize, Beckman told
Chess Life. I wanted the Eastern Open to be more like a chess
festival, and so I added the special prizes for Best Played Game,
Brilliancy, and Opening Innovation to encourage players to
submit their games for publication in Chess Life.
The incentive evidently had an effect. Approximately 30 games
were submitted for the special prizes. Some of the prize-winning
games are annotated later in this article.
In deciding which games should win special prizes, Beckman
says he drew on a set of evaluation criteria, the Deep Rybka chess
engine, his extensive chess library of opening reference books,
and his own experience as a chess instructor.
Ultimately, there is some subjectivity that I am solely respon-
sible for in prize selection, Beckman concedes. Last year, I didn't
get very many good submissions, so the decisions were easy, and
some prizes werent awarded.
Beckman said for the Best Played Game prize, it is critical that
both players play very well.
For the Brilliancy prizes, generally Im looking for sacrifices
and/or well-carried-out attacks, Beckman said. I almost
didn't award the second and third prizes because the two
sacs were pretty much standard, and the one attack was
fairly straightforward.
Whereas in most tournaments, the odds of winning a prize are
fairly low, at the Eastern, the chance of winning some sort of prize
was a little better than one in three, if you do the math on the
fact that 60 prizes were distributed among the 170 players.
One reason there were so many prizes is because Beckman
The Caissa Prot
IN AN ELECTION YEAR,
IT IS REFRESHING TO SEE
INNOVATIONS COMING OUT
OF WASHINGTON, D.C.
A
By JAMAAL ABDUL-ALIM
P
H
O
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O
:

C
A
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O
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I
N
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K
A
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E
CL_03-2012_Eastern_AKF_r11_chess life 2/13/12 10:02 AM Page 16
GM Gregory Kaidanov,
38th Eastern Open
champion
tocol

Chess Life March 2012 17 uschess.org

offered four upset prizes$50 and $25 for first and second place,
respectively, and book prizes for third and fourthacross all sec-
tions in each round.
It was a gas to award $50 in cash to young and old players
who scored huge 300- to 400-point upsets, Beckman said.
Among the old and young who achieved upsets were Louis
Fedele, 64, of District of Columbia, a retired business executive
who defeated a player rated 634 points higher in the Under 1600
section, and 7-year-old Aasa Dommalapati, who, at a rating of
870, defeated a player rated 1244 in the same section.
Whether the upsets indicate anything significant is subjective.
For instance, while Fedele, who had a provisional rating of 817
at the beginning of the tournament, won upset prizes of $50 each
for defeating a player rated 1451 in the first round, and a 1082
player in the sixth round, he doesnt think the upset prizes mean
he achieved something unlikely because only in October did he
start playing tournament chess.
Whether theres a big discrepancy between our skills is
highly doubtful, Fedele said of the opponents he beat, explain-
ing that he didnt think his own provisional rating of 817 truly
reflected his skills.
The upset prizes may have encouraged as many as 37 play-
ers to enter sections higher than their ratings required,
Beckman, the organizer, said. Not everyone was convinced that
entering higher sections to win an upset prize is a good idea. For
instance, Kaufman said the upset prizes might induce players
to play in the wrong section, which he said makes the tour-
nament less enjoyable for the higher-rated players.
Whatever the case may be, players said the mere fact that upset
prizes and special prizes were up for grabs seemed to make the
play more fierce.
I think it definitely makes it more attractive for players to
try to be aggressive and not settle for draws, said IM Dean
Ippolito, a New Jersey-based chess instructor known as the
Dean of Chess and who tied for second- and third-place with
GM Alexander Ivanov at the Eastern. There seems to be a lot
of fighting games.
Among those fighting games are:
Cover Story
IM Dean Ippolito (left) and GM Alexander Ivanov (right) tied for second-third place.
P
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B
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K
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A
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Nimzo-Indian Defense, Classical
Variation (E35)
GM Gregory Kaidanov (2658)
GM Alexander Ivanov (2595)
2011 Eastern Open (5)
Notes by Kaidanov
1. d4 Nf6 2. c4 e6 3. Nc3 Bb4 4. Qc2
Alexander and I have played this variation
three times prior to this game and every
time Black has tried a different system!
4. ... d5
There are two other continuations at this
point: 4. ... 0-0 and 4. ... c5. See the Open-
ing Theory section on page 24 for details.
5. cxd5
At the 2006 U.S. Championship in San
Diego, I played 5. a3 Bxc3+ 6. Qxc3 dxc4
7. Qxc4 b6 8. Nf3 0-0 9. Bg5 Ba6 10. Qc2
Nbd7 11. e4 Qc8 12. 0-0-0 Bxf1 13. Rhxf1
c5 14. d5 Re8 15. dxe6 Rxe6 16. Bxf6
Rxf6 17. e5 Rh6 18. Qe4 Nf8 19. Rd6
Re6 and the game ended as a draw a few
moves later in Kaidanov-Ivanov, San
Diego, USA 2006.
5. ... exd5 6. Bg5 h6
We already had this position before at
the Aeroflot Open in 2004. Then I played
7. Bxf6 and didnt have any advantage to
speak of. My main memory about this
game was that my favorite 70s rock group
Slade was performing in Moscow that
evening. I never saw them live, so my first
impulse was just to make a short grand-
master draw and proceed to the concert.
I then managed to talk myself out of it, say-
ing I am a real professional, I have to
fight! I fought indeed to save a draw from
a worse position! When I finally arrived to
the concert venue, Slade just finished their
performance. I still managed to hear a 30-
minute set of another great 70s group,
Nazareth, so it was not THAT bad ... And
then I went to London to see Slade a few
years later!
7. Bh4 c5 8. dxc5 g5 9. Bg3 Ne4 10. e3 Qa5
During the game I worried about 10. ...
Qf6 but had decided to play 11. Rc1 with
the difference that unlike 10. ... Qa5, the
pawn on a2 is not hanging.
11. Nge2 Bf5 12. Be5 0-0 13. Nd4 Re8
This is a very popular position in this
line. The main move now is 14. Bxb8.
14. Nxf5!
Though this move is not a novelty, it was
played in only two games. I want to give
credit to IM Jake Kleiman (who in turn
gives it to Davorin Kuljasevic), who drew
my attention to this idea. After 14. Bxb8
the latest examples are: 14. ... Nxc3
After 13. ... Re8
15. Nxf5 Ne4+ 16. Kd1 Raxb8 17. f3 Rbc8
18. fxe4 dxe4 19. Bc4 Qxc5 20. Bxf7+
Kxf7 21. Qxc5 Bxc5 22. Rc1 Red8+
1
2-
1
2
Viktor Laznicka (2703)-Peter Leko (2720),
Porto Carras, GRE 2011, or 14. ... Bg6 15.
Bc7 Qxc7 16. Bd3 Bxc5 17. Bxe4 dxe4 18.
0-0-0 Rac8 and the game Evgeny Bareev
(2714)-Veselin Topalov (2735), Amber
Blindfold, Monte Carlo 2004 eventually
ended in a draw. After the game Alexan-
der mentioned to me that he knew the
move 14. ... Bg6 here.
14. ... Rxe5 15. Nxh6+ Kg7 16. Ng4 Re6
Alexander spent close to 40 minutes on
this move! Being a perfectionist, he could-
nt decide whether the rook is better on
e6 or e7. However, the position is so com-
plex that even a computer doesnt know
that (although Rybka also prefers 16. ...
Re6)! The only practical example saw 16.
... Re7 17. f3 Nxc3 18. Kf2 Ne4+ 19. fxe4
dxe4 20. a3 Qxc5 21. Qxc5 Bxc5
1
2-
1
2
Oleg Biriukov (2389)-Vasily Yemelin
(2529), St. Petersburg 2005. I studied
this line as well, however, I have to admit
that during the game I didnt remember
my analyses as clearly as I did with 16.
... Re6.
17. Bd3! Nxc3
After 17. ... Bxc3+ 18. bxc3 Qxc3+ 19.
Qxc3+ Nxc3 20. h4 led to Whites advan-
tage in the game Davorin Kuljasevic-Jake
Kleiman, Lubbock, USA 2011.
Analysis after 20. h4
18. 0-0!!
An amazing sequence! White gives up
a piece ... for what?
18. ... Ne4 19. a3
And all of a sudden it turns out that
Blacks bishop is almost trapped.
19. ... Qxc5 20. Qd1!
Taking the bishop back was a safe
choice, but I knew that the queens retreat
is more testing. After 20. axb4 Qxc2 21.
Bxc2 f5 22. f3 Nd6 23. Nf2 Nc6, Black
wins back the pawn with at least equal-
ity. According to Alexander, thats what he
calculated. He said after the game that he
had a feeling that the queen might move
away, but to assess all those positions was
very difficult.
20. ... Bd2
It looks like this move wins a piece. Bet-
ter would be 20. ... Nc6 21. axb4 Nxb4,
though after 22. Bxe4 dxe4 23. f4! playing
Blacks position in time trouble would be
hard.
21. Bxe4 Rxe4
21. ... dxe4 22. Qxd2 f5 23. Rac1 and
after the queens retreat White checks
on either c3 or d4, starting a strong attack
on the black king. For example. 23. ... Qe7
24. Qd4+ Kg6 25. f4! exf3 e.p. 26. Qd3
and Blacks king is in trouble.
Analysis after 26. Qd3
22. h3!
Black is better in all other lines, but this
move creates problems for him, which is
impossible to solve (especially in time
trouble). I would love to take credit for all
those exclamation marks, however, all
those moves were results of computer-
assisted analyses ... Actually, I do deserve
a credit for ... remembering them!
22. ... f5 23. Nh2 Bxe3
During the game I felt that after 23. ...
Nc6 Black might have compensation for
the pawn, e.g. 24. Qxd2 g4 I worried
about my knight on the side of the board.
However, it turns out White has a clear
way to advantage: 25. Rac1 Qd6 26. f3
and the knight gets out.
24. fxe3 Rxe3 25. Kh1 f4 26. Qg4
(see diagram top of page 20)
Black s lack of development and
an open king determine the result of
the game.
rsn-+-+-+
zpp+-wq-+-
-+-+r+k+
+-+-+pzp-
-+-+-+N+
zP-+QzPp+-
-zP-+-+PzP
+-tR-+RmK-
rsn-+r+k+
zpp+-+p+-
-+-+-+-zp
wq-zPpvLlzp-
-vl-sNn+-+
+-sN-zP-+-
PzPQ+-zPPzP
tR-+-mKL+R
rsn-+-+-+
zpp+-+pmk-
-+-+r+-+
+-zPp+-zp-
-+-+-+NzP
+-snLzP-+-
P+-+-zPP+
tR-+-mK-+R

CL_03-2012_Eastern_AKF_r11_chess life 2/13/12 4:18 PM Page 19
Cover Story
After 26. Qg4
26. ... Rg3 27. Qf5 Qf8 28. Qxd5 Nc6 29. Ng4 Qd8
30. Qe6 Qe7 31. Qh6+ Kg8 32. Rae1, Black
resigned in view of 32. ... Qg7 33. Nf6+ Kf7
34. Qxg7+ Kxg7 35. Nh5+. This game won
the first prizes for Best Played Game and
Opening Innovation.
Queens Gambit Declined (D06)
Yuri Barnakov (2290)
GM Lawrence Kaufman (2459)
Notes by Kaufman
1. d4 Nf6 2. Bg5 d5
I chose 2. ... d5 since I recommend it in
my new book on a complete opening
repertoire, The Kaufman Repertoire in
Black and White, published by New In
Chess. I chose it for the book because I
think White has some chances for a slight
edge against the other moves such as 2.
... Ne4, 2. ... e6, or 2. ... c5.
3. c4?!
The alternatives: 3. e3, 3. Bxf6, 3.
Nc3 (Veresov), and 3. Nf3 (Torre) are all
better moves.
3. ... Ne4
Black is already better. I was already on my
own here as I had never seen 3. c4 before.
4. Bf4?!
White has two better moves: 4. Bh4 c5
also favors Black, though less clearly so,
or 4. Nf3, giving up the bishop pair after
4. ... Nxg5 was objectively best, but no one
would play 3. c4 with this intention.
Analysis after 4. ... Nxg5
4. ... e5!!
According to the Aquarium database,
this position has been reached in 28 pre-
vious over-the-board games, with no
human ever finding this probably winning
move! It has been played before in com-
puter-assisted correspondence games,
which is no surprise as the engines love this
move.
5. dxe5 Bc5 6. e3 Bb4+ 7. Ke2 Qh4! 8. g3
Qh5+ 9. Nf3
Technically this is a novelty, as 9. f3 was
played in a previous correspondence game.
Both moves leave Black much better.
9. ... g5!
After 9. ... dxc4!?, Black regains his pawn
with a safe edge in king safety. The white
bishop on f4 is insecure after 10. a3 Be7 11.
Nbd2 Bg4 with a nice pull for Black.
Analysis after 11. ... Bg4
10. Qa4+?
This move loses. Better alternatives are:
10. cxd5 gxf4 11. Qa4+ (11. Bg2 b6 12.
Qa4+ Nd7 13. Qxb4 Ba6+ 14. Ke1 Ndc5
15. Qa3 0-0-0 and Blacks attack more
than offsets the material deficit.) 11. ... Nc6
12. dxc6 b6 13. exf4 a5 14. Nc3 Qf5 with
Black on top; or 10. a3?! gxf4 11. axb4
fxg3 12. Qxd5 (if 12. fxg3 Nc6! 13. Bg2 Bg4
14. Qxd5 Qg6 15. Rd1 Rd8 16. Qb5 Rxd1
17. Kxd1 Qh5 and Black wins a piece.) 12.
... Nxf2 13. Rg1 gxh2 14. Rg5 Qh6 15. Bg2
Bg4 16. Nbd2 c6 17. Qd4 Qxg5 18. Kxf2
Bxf3 19. Nxf3 Qf5 and Black is up the
Exchange; or 10. Qxd5 Qg6 (10. ... Nc5 is
also good but less clear. I couldnt decide
between them during the game but was
leaning towards ... Qg6. After 11. Bxg5 Nc6
12. a3 Be6 13. Nc3 Bxd5 14. Nxd5 Qg6 15.
axb4 Qc2+ 16. Ke1 Nxb4) 11. a3 c6 12.
Qd1 Be7 13. h4 gxf4 14. h5 Qg8 15. gxf4
Bg4 and White has three pawns for the
knight, but with his king awkwardly
placed, Black is better.
10. ... Nc6 11. cxd5 Nc5 12. Qd1
If 12. Qc2 b6! 13. Nbd2 Bxd2 and Black
wins a piece.
12. ... Bf5 13. Nc3 0-0-0 14. Ke1 gxf4 15. Be2?
Somewhat better is 15. gxf4 Be4 16.
Ng5 Qg6 17. Nxe4 Qxe4 18. Rg1 Rxd5 and
Black has both a material advantage and
a strong attack.
15. ... fxg3 16. fxg3 Qh6
16. ... Be4 is another way to win.
17. Qc1 Rxd5 18. Bc4 Nd3+ 19. Bxd3 Rxd3 20.
Ke2 Bxc3 21. bxc3 Rhd8 22. h4 Bg4, White
resigned, as 23. Kf2 Bxf3 wins easily. It
appears that I played a perfect game,
meaning every move was best or at least
as good as any other. For me at least this
is an extremely rare occurrence. This game
won the first Brilliancy prize and the third
Best Played Game prize.
Fianchetto Gruenfeld (D76)
Dean Ippolito (2531)
Kevin Mo (2277)
Notes by Ippolito and Beckman
As an interesting side note, GM Magesh
Panchanathan and I got stuck in traffic
for over six hours on the way to the tour-
nament and got to the round just in time.
While I was hoping for a short game, my
opponent played really well and made
me work very hard for this point.
1. d4 Nf6 2. c4 g6 3. Nf3 Bg7 4. g3 0-0
By delaying 4. ... 0-0, Black can later
on force e2-e3, or force the sacrifice of the
d- pawn by White after 4. ... d5 5. cxd5
Nxd5 6. Bg2 Nb6 7. Nc3 Nc6.
5. Bg2 d5 6. cxd5 Nxd5 7. 0-0 Nb6 8. Nc3 Nc6
9. d5
Here Boris Avrukh prefers 9. e3 and 9.
... Re8 10. Re1 a5 has been debated many
times in recent years.
9. ... Na5 10. Qc2 e6?!
The main line is 10. ... c6 11. dxc6
Nxc6 12. Rd1 Qe8 with near equality.
Interesting is 10. ... Nxd5 11. Rd1 c6 12.
Ne1! (12. e4 Nb4) 12. ... Bxc3! 13. bxc3
Qc7.
11. dxe6 Bxe6 12. Bg5 Qc8 13. Rfd1
Slightly better is 13. Rad1!? Nc6 14.
Qc1 Bh3 15. Bf4 Bxg2 16. Kxg2 Re8 17.
Rfe1 with a decent edge.
13. ... Nc6 14. Rac1
White misses an opportunity for a nice
edge with 14. Qc1 Bh3 15. Bh6 Bxg2 16.
Kxg2 Qg4 17. Bxg7 Kxg7 18. Nb5 Rac8
19. a4.
14. ... Bf5
In Ippolito-Nakamura/New York Mas-
ters 2003, Naka played 14. ... Re8 15. b3!?
Bf5 16. Qd2 Bg4 17. Qf4 f6? (17. ... Qf5
leaves White with an edge) 18. Bxf6 Rf8
rsnlwqkvl-tr
zppzp-zppzpp
-+-+-+-+
+-+p+-sn-
-+PzP-+-+
+-+-+N+-
PzP-+PzPPzP
tRN+QmKL+R
rsn-+k+-tr
zppzp-vlpzpp
-+-+-+-+
+-+-zP-+q
-+p+nvLl+
zP-+-zPNzP-
-zP-sNKzP-zP
tR-+Q+L+R
rsn-+-+-+
zpp+-+-mk-
-+-+-+-+
+-wqp+-zp-
-+-+-zpQ+
zP-+-tr-+P
-zP-+-+PsN
tR-+-+R+K
Analysis after 19. a4
19. Ne4 Bxf3 (19. ... Qe6 20. Nfg5) 20.
Bxf3 h6 (20. ... Qe6 21. Bg4 Qf7 22. Bg5)
21. Rxc6!? (even better is 21. Bg4! win-
ning) 21. ... bxc6 22. Qe5 Rxf6! 23. Nxf6+
Kf7 24. Bxc6 Bxf6 25. Qf4 g5 26. Qe4 Rb8
27. a4! Qe6 (27. ... a5 28. b4!) 28. Rd7+!
Nxd7 29. Bd5 Qxd5 30. Qxd5+ is close to
winning. Another reasonable line for
Black is 14. ... h6 15. Bf4 Rd8 16. a3 a6
17. h4 Bg4 18. b3 with a slight edge.
15. Qb3
I decided to try to repeat moves before
playing e2-e4. My opponent had a differ-
ent idea ... Two lines leading to an edge
are: 15. Qd2! f6 (15. ... Nc4 16. Qf4) 16.
Bf4 Nc4 (16. ... g5 17. e4) 17. Qd5+ Be6
18. Qb5 (18. Qc5 Rf7) 18. ... a6 19. Qc5
Rf7 20. Nd5 Nxb2 21. Rd2 Na4 22. Qa3
Bxd5 23. Rxd5 Nb6 24. Rd3, or 15. e4
Bg4 16. Nd5! Nxd5 17. exd5 Ne5 18. Qb3
c5 19. Be7 Re8 20. d6 Qf5 21. Nxe5 Bxd1
22. Rxd1 Qxe5 23. Qxb7.
15. ... a5!?
15. ... Be6 16. Qc2 repeats the position.
16. e4
Another idea is 16. Nb5 Be6 17. Qc2
Bc4 18. Nc3 Nb4 19. Qb1 Re8 20. e4
with a slight edge.
16. ... a4 17. Qa3?!
Much better is 17. Qc2!? Bg4 18. Bf4
Bxf3 19. Bxf3 Nd4 20. Qd3 with an edge.
17. ... Nc4?!
Black returns the favor and missed
17. ... Re8 18. exf5 Bf8 19. b4 Nc4 with
an edge.
18. Qc5 Be6 19. Nd5 Nxb2 20. Rd2 a3 21. Bf6
White has a lot of compensation now.
The black knight is misplaced on b2 and
Blacks king is in danger.
21. ... Ra4
Somewhat better is 21. ... Bxd5 22.
Bxg7 Bxa2 23. Qc3 (23. Bxf8? Qxf8) 23.
... f6 24. Bh3! Qxh3 25. Bxf8 Rxf8 26.
Qxa3 with an edge.
22. Ng5?
Bad move order. White is winning after
22. Bxg7 Kxg7 23. Ng5 h6 24. Qc3+ f6 25.
Nxe6+ Qxe6 26. Qb3.
22. ... h6?
And Black misses 22. ... Bxd5 23. Bxg7
Bxa2 24. Bh6 Bc4 (24. ... Re8 25. Bh3!
wins) 25. Bh3 Qa8 26. Qe3.
Analysis after 26. Qe3
26. ... Nd3!? 27. Rxd3 Bxd3 28. Qxd3
Nd4 29. Kg2 Qd8 30. Ra1 Qe7 31. Bxf8
Kxf8 32. Nf3 with near equality in an
unbalanced position.
23. Bxg7 Kxg7 24. Qc3+ f6 25. Nxe6+ Qxe6
26. Qb3! Ra7
Or 26. ... Rb8 27. Rdc2 wins.
Analysis after 27. Rdc2
27. Nxc7?!
Very strong is 27. e5! Opening up the
bishop on g2 seemed best, but in mutual
time pressure I decided to play it safe and
go for a better endgame with no risk. After
27. ... fxe5 (27. ... Nxe5 28. Qe3) 28. Qe3
Ra4 29. Nxc7 Qf5 30. Bd5 Kh7 31. Ne6
Rf7 32. Nc5 is winning. Also winning is 27.
Qe3 Ra5 28. Nxc7 Qc8 29. Nd5 Qe6 30.
Qb6.
27. ... Qxb3 28. axb3 Rf7 29. Nb5 Ra5 30.
Nxa3
30. Bf1 Ne5.
30. ... Rxa3 31. Rxb2
This was what I was aiming for with 27.
Nxc7. Black isnt losing but he needs to
be accurate.
31. ... Nd4 32. b4 Nf3+?!
Going into a pure rook and pawn end-
ing gives Black more problems.
33. Bxf3 Rxf3 34. b5 Rd3 35. Rc4 Rfd7 36.
Rbc2 Kf7 37. Kg2 Rb3 38. Rc7 Ke6 39. Rxd7
Kxd7 40. Rc5 Kd6 41. Rd5+ Ke6 42. g4
The winning plan is to play for h2-h4-
h5. With so many pawns on the board,
Black has problems holding. However,
with Blacks active rook he should still be
able to hold.
42. ... Ke7
42. ... b6 putting all of the pawns on the
sixth rank looks dangerous but may be
playable after 43. h4 Rb2.
43. h4 b6
Black didnt have to do this, but its still
drawing.
44. h5 gxh5?
After this move, Black may be lost.
Better is 44. ... g5 45. e5 (45. f3 Rb2+ 46.
Kf1 Rb1+ 47. Kf2 Rb2+ 48. Ke3 Rb3+ 49.
Ke2 Rb2+ 50. Kd1 Rb3 51. Rf5) 45. ... fxe5
46. Rxe5+ Kf6 47. Rf5+ and after 47. ...
Ke7 (47. ... Kg7 48. Rd5 and White again
achieves his goal of a three versus one
kingside pawn majority, or 47. ... Ke6
48. Rf8 and the h6-pawn will be lost.)
48. Kf1 Rb4 49. f3 Rb2 50. Ke1 Rb3 51.
Kd1 Rb2 52. Kc1 Rb3 53. Kc2 Re3. This
may be Blacks best defensive setup. If 53.
... Rb4 54. Kd3 Rb1 55. Kc4 Rc1+ 56. Kd5
Rc5+ 57. Kd4 Rc8 (57. ... Rc1 58. Re5+
Kf6 59. Re8) 58. Re5+ Kf6 59. Re3 and
this position looks difficult to hold for
Black.
45. Rxh5 Kf7 46. e5
Trading pawns usually helps the side
that is defending. Here, however, it makes
it easier for the white king to head to c6.
46. ... fxe5 47. Rxe5 Kf6 48. Rf5+ Kg6 49. f3
The plan of bringing the king to c6
decides.
49. ... Kg7 50. Kg3 Rb4 51. Rd5 Rb2 52. Kf4
Rb3 53. Ke4 Rb4+
If 53. ... Kf7 54. f4.
54. Ke5 Rb3 55. f4 Rb4 56. g5
56. Rd7+ Kg8 57. Kf5 also wins.
56. ... hxg5 57. fxg5 Rc4
If 57. ... Rb3 58. Kd6.
58. Kd6 Kg6 59. Kd7 Rc3 60. Rd6+, Black
resigned.
After 60. ... Kxg5 61. Rxb6 Rb3 62.
Rb8 Kf5 63. b6 the black king is so far
away that the win is easy. This game won
the second prize for Best Played Game.
Our coverage continues on the next page
with Opening Theory at the Eastern Open
and Revisiting & Retreading on page 24.
Also, see more Eastern Open coverage by
Jamaal Abdul-Alim on Chess Life Online,
uschess.org, December archives.
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Cover Story
Opening Theory at the Eastern Open
This year, several games qualified as true opening innovations, and there were a number of games in which opening
theory played a big role in the result. N = Novelty; S = Suggestion.
Trompowsky Opening
[A45 & D06]:
Notes by Kaufman
1. d4 Nf6 2. Bg5 and now
Black has four good alterna-
tives:
a) 2. ... c5 3. Bxf6 gxf6 4. d5 Qb6 5.
Qc1 f5 6. c4 Bg7 7. Nc3 d6 8. e3
Nd7 9. Qc2 Ne5 10. Nh3 h5 11. Be2
Bd7 12. 0-0 h4 13. a3
Whites space advantage
and superior pawn structure
offset Blacks bishop pair.
b) 2. ... e6 3. e4 h6 4. Bxf6 Qxf6 5.
c3 d6 6. Bd3 g6 7. Ne2 Bg7 8. 0-0
0-0 9. f4
Black is playing the Hippopota-
mus setup, which concedes a
clear space advantage. His bishop
pair offers substantial but per-
haps not full compensation.
c) 2. ... Ne4 3. Bf4 c5 4. f3 Qa5+ 5.
c3 Nf6
1) 6. d5 Qb6 7. Bc1 e6 8. e4 exd5
9. exd5 d6 10. c4 Be7 11. Nc3 0-0 12.
Bd3 Nbd7 13. f4 Re8 14. Nge2 Bf8
15. 0-0
White is slightly better due
to his space advantage.
2) 6. Nd2 cxd4 7. Nb3 Qb6 8.
Qxd4 Nc6 9. Qxb6 axb6 10. Be3 b5
11. Nd4 Nxd4 12. Bxd4 d6 13. e4
Bd7 14. Bxf6 gxf6 15. a3=
Blacks bishop pair offsets
his bad pawns.
d) 2. ... d5
See Barnakov- Kaufman
game on page 20.
Caro-Kann Defense,
Advance Variation [B12]
Notes by Beckman and
Deep Rybka
1. e4 c6 2. d4 d5 3. e5 Bf5 and
now White has tried 22
moves in my Aquarium data-
base, and 11 moves are
covered in Lars Schandorffs
The Caro-Kann: 4. Nf3, 4.
Nc3, 4. Nd2, 4. Ne2, 4. h4, 4.
c4, 4. c3, 4. g4, 4. f4, 4. Be3,
or 4. Bd3. Here I examine 4.
Nf3 and 4. h4:
a) 4. Nf3
The Short Variation is now
the main line of the Advanced
Caro-Kann.
4. ... e6 5. Be2 Ne7
5. ... c5 is also playable.
1) 6. 0-0 Nd7
And now White has tried
seven moves: 7. Nbd2, 7. Re1,
7. Nh4, 7. Be3, 7. h3, 7. Nc3,
and 7. a4. Most challenging
are:
a) 7. Nbd2 Nc8 8. c4 Be7 9. Qb3
Qc7 10. Bd3 Bxd3 11. Qxd3 0-0 12. b3
dxc4 13. Nxc4 h6 14. h3 Ncb6 15. Ba3
Bxa3 16. Nxa3 Rad8 17. Rad1 is a
touch better for White in Sal-
gado Lopez-Alsina Leal,
Barcelona 2010.
b) 7. Re1 Ng6 8. Nc3 Bb4 9. a3
Bxc3 10. bxc3 Qa5 11. Rb1 b5 12.
Rb4 0-0 13. Nd2 Ne7 14. a4 a6=
2) 6. Na3 N Nd7 7. 0-0
a) 7. ... Qc7 8. Be3 Bg6 Or 8.
... f6 9. c4 fxe5 =. 9. Rc1?! Bet-
ter is 9. c4 Nf5 10. cxd5 Nxe3
11. fxe3 exd5 12. Nh4=. 9. ...
Qb6! 10. Rb1 Nf5 11. Bd3 c5 12. c3
Be7 13. g4?! Better is 13. Qe2
Nxe3 14. Qxe3 Bxd3 15. Qxd3
0-0 with a slight edge. 13. ...
Nxe3 14. fxe3 0-0-0 or 14. ... f6 with
a nice edge for Black. How-
ever, Jonathan Richman-
Nelson Castaneda was later
drawn.
b) 7. ... Ng6 S 8. Ne1 h5 9. Nf3
Be7 10. c3 f6 11. exf6
b) 4. h4
This variation was first
played in Mikhail Tal-Mikhail
Botvinnik, World Champi-
onship Return Match 1961.
Blacks match score in this vari-
ation was two wins and three
draws. Its recent popularity is
based on the recommendation
for White in the Opening col-
umn of ChessGames.com.
4. ... h5
Regarded as best, although
Botvinnik played 4. ... h6 5. g4
Bd7 (not 5. ... Bh7?! 6. e6!)
three times in the match.
5. c4 e6
1) 6. Nc3 Ne7 7. Nge2 Nd7 (or
7. ... dxc4 8. Ng3 b5 9. Bg5
Qb6 10. a4 Bg6 11. Be2 Nd7
12. axb5 cxb5 13. 0-0 with
full compensation for the
pawn).
Analysis after 13. 0-0
a) 8. Ng3 Bg6 9. a3 dxc4 10.
Bxc4 Nf5 11. Nxf5 Bxf5 12. Be2 (or
12. Bg5 Be7 13. Qd2 Bxg5=) 12.
... Be7 N 13. Be3 g6 or 13. ... Bxh4
Evgeny Alekseev (2673)-Ildar
Khairullin (2649), Russian
Championship Higher League,
drawn in 43 moves, is the stem
game for the ChessGames.com
recommendation.
b) 8. cxd5 Nxd5 9. Nxd5 cxd5
10. Bd2 Rc8 11. Bc3 Be7 12. Nf4 g6
13. Bb5 a6 14. Bd3 Bxd3 15. Qxd3
Nb8
c) 8. Bg5 N Qb6! (Kevin
Wang-Tom Beckman went 8.
... Qc7?! 9. Ng3 Bg6 10. Be2?!
[Better is 10. cxd5 Nxd5 11.
Bd3 Bxd3 12. Qxd3 Nb4 13.
Qe4 with a slight edge.] 10. ...
dxc4 Black is better after 10.
... f6 11. cxd5 Nxd5 12. Nxd5
exd5 13. exf6 gxf6 14. Bd2 0-
0-0.) 9. Qd2 dxc4 10. Ng3 Bd3 11.
Bxd3 cxd3 12. Be3 0-0-0 13. 0-0-0
Ng6 14. Qxd3 Ndxe5 with an
edge.
2) 6. Bg5
White can play Bg5 on
moves 5, 6, or 8. Now Black
has three good continuations:
a) 6. ... Qb6 7. Qd2 dxc4 (7. ...
Bxb1?! 8. c5) 8. Nc3 (8. Bxc4?
Bxb1) 8. ... Qa6 9. Nge2 Nd7 N 10.
Ng3 Bg6 with a slight edge for
Black.
b) Wild and woolly is 6. ... f6
7. exf6 (weaker is 7. Be3 fxe5 9.
dxe5 Nh6!) 7. ... gxf6 8. Bf4 Qb6 9.
Qd2 dxc4 10. Nc3 Nd7 11. Bxc4 0-
0-0 12. Rd1 Ne5 13. Bxe5 fxe5 14.
Qe2 Bg7 with likely a slight
edge to Black.
c) 6. ... Ne7 7. cxd5 Bxb1 8.
Rxb1 Qxd5
Scotch Gambit [C44]
Notes by Kaufman and
Beckman
1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 Nc6 3. d4 exd4 4.
Bc4 Bc5
4. ... Nf6 transposes to the
Two Knights Defense to the
Italian Game.
5. 0-0 d6 6. c3
1) 6. ... Bg4 7. Qb3 Bxf3 8. Bxf7+
Kf8
a) 9. gxf3 dxc3 10. Bxg8 Rxg8
11. Nxc3 Nd4 12. Qd1 Qf6 13. f4 g5
14. f5 g4 15. Bf4 Nf3+ 16. Kh1 c6 17.
Qd3 Re8 This position is
unclear and fairly equal. Black
plans ... Kg7 and ... Kh8.
b) 9. Bxg8? Rxg8 10. gxf3 is
my game with Defibaugh on
page 21. After the most popu-
lar move 10. ... g5 11. Nd2 Bb6! 12.
Nc4 Qf6 13. Kg2 Rg7 Black is
winning:
I) 14. Rb1 Rf7 15. Qd1 Re8
16. a4 a6 17. Nxb6 cxb6 18. Kh1
Qxf3+;
II) 14. Bd2 Rf7 15. Qd1 Bc5
16. b4 b5 17. bxc5 bxc4 18. cxd4
Nxd4 19. Bc3 dxc5 20. Rc1 Qxf3+;
III) 14. Qc2 dxc3 15. Qxc3
Bd4 16. Qd3 Rf7;
IV) 14. a4 Rf7 15. Qd1 dxc3
16. Ra3 cxb2 17. Bxb2 Bd4.
2) 6. ... dxc3 7. Nxc3 is a Gor-
ing Gambit, but Black would
prefer ... Bb4 and ... Bxc3
rather than ... Bc5 in that
opening. The attacking posi-
tion of the bishop on c5 does
not blend with Blacks strategy
of defense and simplification
when a pawn ahead. After 7. ...
Nf6 8. Bg5 0-0 9. Nd5 Be6 the posi-
tion is hard to evaluate.
5. c3 Nf6! transposes to the old
main lines of the Italian Game.
1) 6. cxd4 Bb4+ 7. Bd2 Bxd2+
8. Nbxd2 d5 9. exd5 Nxd5 10. Qb3
a) 10. ... Na5 11. Qa4+ Nc6 12.
Qa3! Qe7+ 13. Qxe7+ Ncxe7 14. 0-
0 Almost equal, but White is
ever-so slightly better despite
his isolated pawn due to good
squares for his rooks (e1 and
c1) and knights (e5 and e4 and
c5) and to his lead in develop-
ment.
b) 10. ... Nce7 11. 0-0 0-0 12.
Rfe1 c6 13. Ne4 White is slightly
r+-+kvl-tr
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+-sN-+-sN-
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tR-+Q+RmK-
better due to superior devel-
opment and more active pieces.
2) 6. e5 d5 7. Bb5 Ne4 8. cxd4
Bb6 9. Nc3 0-0 10. Be3 Bg4 11. Qc2
Nxc3 12. bxc3 f6 13. exf6 Qxf6 14.
Be2
Gruenfeld Defense,
Fianchetto
Variation (D76)
Notes by Ippolito and
Beckman
1. d4 Nf6 2. c4 g6 3. Nf3
White can also forego Nf3 to
flick the black knight away
with 3. g3 Bg7 4. Bg2 d5 5.
cxd5 Nxd5 6. e4 Nb6 7. Ne2
with chances for an edge.
3. ... Bg7 4. g3
When Black plays ... d7-d5 it
becomes a Grnfeld. He can
prepare it with ... c7-c6 first or
play ... d7-d5 immediately. Later
this year, Wojos Weapons: Vol-
ume 3 by Dean Ippolito and
Jonathan Hilton will devote sev-
eral chapters to the Gruenfeld
and will include many new
ideas.
a) 4. ... d5!
Recommended by Alexander
Delchev/Evgenij Agrest and
Yelena Dembo in their respec-
tive books. Move order is quite
important in the Fianchetto
Variation. By delaying 4. ... 0-
0, Black can later on force e3,
or force the sacrifice of the d-
pawn by White.
5. cxd5
Slightly inferior is 5. Bg2
dxc4 6. Na3 c3! 7. bxc3 c5 8. 0-
0 0-0 9. e3!.
5. ... Nxd5 6. Bg2 Nb6 7. Nc3 Nc6 8.
e3
8. d5? Bxc3+ is strong.
8. ... 0-0 9. 0-0 Re8 10. Re1 a5 with
a tiny edge for White. This
variation has been debated
many times in recent years
with White choosing between
11. Qe2 (Avrukh), 11. Qc2, 11. b3,
and 11. Ng5. Black seems to be
holding his own.
b) 4. ... 0-0 5. Bg2 d5 6. cxd5 Nxd5
7. 0-0 Nb6 8. Nc3 Nc6 9. d5
Here Avrukh prefers 9. e3
see 4. ... d5. I have played both
but recently prefer the imme-
diate 9. d5.
9. ... Na5
The best and most common
reply. 9. ... Bxc3 10. dxc6 is a
little better for White.
10. Qc2
After 10. Qc2
There are other choices but
I think this move poses Black
the most problems. White also
retains a slight edge after 10.
e4 c6 11. Re1 Nbc4 12. Rb1
cxd5 13. Nxd5 Bg4 14. Bg5 f6
15. Bf4 e5 16. Bc1.
1) 10. ... c6 is the main line
and after 11. dxc6 Nxc6 12. Rd1
And now there are four choices:
a) 12. ... Qe8!? (Ippolito and
Beckman disagree on the value
of this move) and now either:
I) 13. Qe4 h6? (Black can
still defend with 13. ... Bf5! S
14. Qh4 f6 15. g4 Be6 16. b3
[16. Ne4 Qf7! 17. Neg5? fxg5
18. Nxg5 Bf6!] 16. ... Rd8 17.
Bb2 Nd5 18. Qg3 Ncb4=) 14.
Qh4 and my opponent here
resigned in the game Dean
Ippolito (2430)-Earl Pruner
(2290), U.S. Masters 1998.
There is a temporary defense
though my opponent thought
Nb5 was just winning. 14. ... g5
15. Bxg5 hxg5 16. Nxg5 Bf5 17. Be4
Qc8 18. g4! Bxe4 19. Ncxe4 and
Whites attack was overwhelm-
ing in Nenad Sulava-Darko
Anic, Budapest 1990 after 19. ...
Rd8 20. Ng3 Rd4 21. Qh7+.
II) 13. Bf4 S Bf5 14. e4 Bg4
15. Nb5 Nb4 16. Qe2 Rc8 17. h3 Bxf3
18. Bxf3 Rc2
b) 12. ... Bd7 I think this is
Blacks second best choice. 13.
Be3 (Another idea is 13. Bf4
Qe8 14. Qc1 Rd8 15. Bh6 with
a slight edge) and now either:
I) 13. ... Nc4 with another
split: 14. Bf4 I think this is
Whites best move after 14. ...
Rc8 15. Qc1 Re8 16. Rb1 with a
slight edge, or 14. ... Qc8 15. Rac1
Bg4 16. Qb3 Nb6 17. Nd5 with an
edge, or 14. ... e5? 15. Bg5 Qc8 16.
Nd5 is close to winning. 14. Bc5
Rc8! (14. ... b6?! 15. Nd4 Nxd4
16. Bxd4 was a little better for
White in Ippolito [2390]-Daniel
Pomerleano [2240], Foxwoods
2005) Black equalizes after
either 15. b3 b6! 16. bxc4 bxc5 17.
Rab1, or 15. Nd4 N6e5! 16. Nb3 b6
17. Bd4 Qe8, or 15. Nd2 Nb8! 16.
Nxc4 Rxc5 17. Ne3 Qc8.
II) 13. ... Qc8 14. Bxb6 Bxc3?!
(after 14. ... axb6 15. Nd5
White is still better) 15. Qxc3
axb6 16. Qe3 with a big edge for
White in Ippolito (2458)-David
Grasso (2168), 2nd DOCA
FIDE Invitational 2010.
c) 12. ... Bf5 13. e4 Bd7 14. Bf4
Qc8 (or 14. ... Rc8 S 15. Qe2
Qe8 16. e5 Bg4 17. h3 Be6 18.
Be3 with an edge) 15. Nb5 Bg4 16.
Rac1 with a nice game in
Ippolito (2455)-Justin Sarkar
(2388), Chicago 2009.
d) 12. ... Qc7?! 13. Nb5 Qb8 14.
Bf4 e5 15. Be3 Bf5 16. Qc5! and
now either:
I) 16. ... Nd7 17. Qd6 (or 17.
Qa3 avoiding the queen trade)
and White is dominating in
Ippolito (2469)-Andre Diamant
(2498), SPICE Cup 2010.
II) 16. ... Rc8 17. Nd6! Bf8 18.
Ng5 Rc7!? (18. ... f6 19. Bd5+
Kg7 20. Ngf7 wins, or 18. ...
Be6 19. Nxe6 fxe6 20. f4 wins,
or 18. ... Bxd6 19. Rxd6 h6
20. Nxf7 or 19. ... Nd4 20. Qxe5
Nxe2+ 21. Kf1 Nc4! are strong.)
is one of the key lines of this
variation, but is good for White
after 19. Qb5 Bxd6 (19. ... Bc2 20.
Bxb6) 20. Rxd6 Qf8 21. Rdd1.
III) 16. ... Re8? was played in
Ippolito (2371)-Richard Shtivel-
band (2158), World Open 2003.
Now 17. Nd6 would have left Black
in big trouble.
2) 10. ... Nxd5 11. Rd1 c6 12.
Ne1! (12. e4 Nb4)
a) 12. ... Bxc3 S 13. bxc3 Qc7
with a slight edge for White.
b) 12. ... Bd7 13. Nxd5 cxd5 14.
Rxd5 e6 15. Rd3 Rc8 16. Qd1 Rc7 17.
Bf4 e5 18. Rc1 Nc6 19. Bxc6 bxc6 20.
Be3 was a little better for White
in Ippolito (2430)-Kidambi Sun-
dararajan (2285), World Junior
1998.
3) 10. ... e6?! 11. dxe6 Bxe6 12.
Bg5 Qc8 is Ippolito-Kevin Mo
and Ippolito-Hikaru Nakamura,
NY Masters 2003, and now:
a) 13. Rfd1 Nc6 14. Qc1 S Bh3
15. Bh6 Bxg2 16. Kxg2 Qg4 17. Bxg7
Kxg7 18. Nb5 Rac8 19. a4 with a
nice edge.
b) 13. Rad1 S Nc6 14. Qc1 Bh3
15. Bf4 Bxg2 16. Kxg2 Re8 17. Rfe1
with a decent edge.
(see another opening next
column)
Nimzo-Indian Defense,
Classical
Variation (E32-E39)
Notes by Kaidanov
1. d4 Nf6 2. c4 e6 3. Nc3 Bb4 4.
Qc2
Now there are three major
continuations:
a) 4. ... 0-0 is probably the
main line nowadays. Now there
are two continuations:
1) 5. a3 Bxc3+ 6. Qxc3 d5!
Modern theory doesnt show
any advantage for White. One
of the latest examples is 7. Bg5
dxc4 8. Qxc4 b6 9. Nf3 Ba6 10. Qa4
h6 11. Bh4 c5 12. dxc5 bxc5 13. Rd1
Qb6 14. Bxf6 gxf6 15. e3 Bxf1 16.
Kxf1 Nc6 17. Rb1 Rab8 18. Ke2
Qb5+ 19. Qxb5 Rxb5 20. Kd3 Rfb8
21. Kc2 Na5 and the game ended
as a draw on the 42nd move in
Viswanathan Anand-Sergey
Karjakin, Moscow, Tal Memo-
rial 2011.
2) 5. e4 d5 6. e5 Ne4 7. Bd3 c5
8. Nf3 cxd4 9. Nxd4 Nd7 10. Bf4 Ndc5
11. 0-0 Nxd3 12. Qxd3 Bxc3 13. bxc3
b6 14. cxd5 exd5 led to an equal
position in Vinay Bhat-Gregory
Kaidanov, U.S. Championship,
St. Louis 2010.
b) 4. ... c5 5. dxc5 0-0 6. a3 Bxc5
7. Nf3 b6 8. Bf4 Nh5 9. Bg5 Be7 10. h4!
in Gregory Kaidanov-Alexander
Ivanov, Denver 2002, 1-0, 71
moves. This was a very impor-
tant novelty at the time. It was
discovered by Boris Gulko dur-
ing our training session at his
house in New Jersey.
c) 4. ... d5 See Kaidanov-
Ivanov on page 19.
King's Indian Defense,
Mar del Plata Variation
(E99)
Notes by Beckman
1. d4 Nf6 2. Nf3 g6 3. c4 Bg7 4. Nc3
0-0 5. e4 d6 6. Be2 e5 7. 0-0 Nc6 8.
d5 Ne7 9. Ne1
Whites first decision point is
whether to play the Bayonet
Attack with 9. b4 or old school
moves 9. Ne1 or 9. Nd2.
9. ... Nd7 10. Nd3
And here White has played
10. Be3, but I think this is
weaker because eventually
Black gains time with f7-f5-f4
and then the queen bishop isnt
doing much at f2.
10. ... f5 11. Bd2
r+lwq-trk+
zppzp-zppvlp
-sn-+-+p+
sn-+P+-+-
-+-+-+-+
+-sN-+NzP-
PzPQ+PzPLzP
tR-vL-+RmK-
Cover Story
Revisiting & Retreading
GM Larry Kaufman, a Maryland-based chess writer and co-
developer of the Komodo chess engine, says most chess players
who use computers to analyze
games tend to examine games
that were played in, well, the
computer age.
But for Kaufman, 64, one of
the most exciting uses of todays
technology is when you use it to
study openings from centuries
gone by.
Its rather common to find
new moves in really old open-
ings, because people dont study
lines from before the computer
age, said Kaufman, author of
the newly-released The Kauf-
man Repertoire for Black & White
(New in Chess, 2012), a book
in which he uses chess engines
to fine-tune his analyses from
previous writings.
Thats where youre much
more likely to find a new good
move than in a line that every-
bodys playing, Kaufman said.
Such an occurrence took place
when Kaufman used computers
to analyze his round four game
against Jared Defibaugh at the
38th Eastern Open.
Kaufman says he used a com-
puter database to confirm that a
particular move in the game was new, and he used the Komodo
chess engine to confirm that it was good.
In the particular move that were talking about, I found (the
move) myself, Kaufman said. I didnt find it at a computer,
but the computer later confirmed it was the best move.
The opening was a rather
unusual variation of something
thats really more of an opening
that was played 100 years ago,
Kaufman said. Its not an open-
ing you see much anymore. Its a
line called the Scotch Gambit.
In this particular game, Kauf-
man said, he played a slightly
unusual move on the 10th move.
And then, on the next move, I
played a move that appears to be
completely new, Kaufman said.
As far as the analysis that Ive
been able to do, it is in fact the
correct move.
So it appears that I did intro-
duce a genuine novelty thats
original and good.
Kaufman says he doesnt go out
of his way to play archaic chess
moves, but will do so when certain
circumstances arise.
The game of chess is two peo-
ple playing it. Its not just up to
one person what the opening will
be. Its up to both, Kaufman said.
You have to be prepared if youre
going to be a high-level player for
all of those openings.
I dont myself play any openings
that are super old, except when my opponent has already
played an old opening, I play a counter to the old opening. (See
game next page.) ~JAA
If 11. f3?! f4! holds up c4-c5.
11. ... Nf6
If 11. ... f4?! 12. Bg4, trading
off the dangerous black queen
bishop.
12. f3 f4 13. c5 g5
Both White and Black are
making progress with their
respective pawn storms. Because
Blacks storm against the white
king is more dangerous, White
must distract Black by breaking
through first on the queenside or
risk losing. This is my second
game against Andrew Ding in
this line. Last year I essayed a
novelty with 14. Qb3 with a
draw. This year I decided to try
the main line with 14. Rc1:
14. Rc1 Ng6 15. Nb5 Rf7
15. ... a6 16. cxd6 axb5 17.
dxc7 Qd7 18. Qb3! has been
tried, but White is close to win-
ning.
16. Ba5!
This forces a weakness at c6
and prevents the black queen
from reaching the b6-g1 diagonal.
16. ... b6 17. cxd6 cxd6 18. Be1
After 18. Be1
... and here David Vigorito in
Attacking Chess: The King's
Indian, Volume 1, Everyman
Chess 2010, gives two alter-
natives:
a) 18. ... a6 19. Nc3 and here Vig-
orito gives three lines, 19. ...
a5, 19. ... h5?!, and 19. ...
Bd7?!, and my opponent tried a
fourth, 19. ... Bf8?!:
1) 19. ... a5 Necessary accord-
ing to Vigorito to prevent the
white knight from posting up at
c6. 20. Nb5 g4 21. Rc6 Bf8 22. Bf2
Rb8 23. Qc2 g3 24. Bxb6 gxh2+ 25.
Kxh2 Both sides break through.
25. ... Rxb6 26. Rxc8 Qe7 27. Nc7! S
(27. Rc7 Nd7 28. Nf2 Nh4
unclear David Cummings-Bator
Sambuev, Toronto 2010) 27. ...
Nh5 28. Rc1 Qg5 29. Kg1 when
White appears to be winning.
2) 19. ... Bf8?! N 20. Nb4 Nd7 21.
Nc6 Qf6! 22. Bf2! h5 23. Na4 b5 24.
Nb6?! is Tom Beckman-Andrew
Ding and White is still much
better, although I later lost, but
24. Nc3 Bh6 25. a4 bxa4 26.
Ra1 Nh4 27. Nxa4 is winning
for White.
b) 18. ... g4 19. Nb4 g3!? 20. Nc6! S
Vigorito gives 20. hxg3? fxg3
21. Nc6 Qf8 22. Bxg3 Bh6 and
Black is rolling.
20. ... Qf8 21. Bb4 Rd7 22. Qb3
gxh2+ 23. Kxh2 Ba6 24. Qa3 Bxb5
25. Bxb5 a5 26. Be1 is close to
winning for White.
r+lwq-+k+
zp-+-+rvlp
-zp-zp-snn+
+N+Pzp-zp-
-+-+Pzp-+
+-+N+P+-
PzP-+L+PzP
+-tRQvLRmK-
GM Larry Kaufman
P
H
O
T
O
:

B
E
T
S
Y

D
Y
N
A
K
O
2011 Eastern Open At A Glance
Date: December 27-30, 2011
Location: Westin Washington, D.C.
City Center Hotel, Washington, D.C.
Tournament Results:
170 players, seven rounds, four
sections. GM Gregory Kaidanov kept
the lead throughout, winning the
Open section with 6 points out of 7,
one-half point ahead of competition
that included three other grandmasters
and four international masters.
Kaidanov drew with IMs Dean Ippolito
and Tegshsuren Enkhbat, and won
a key matchup with GM Alexander
Ivanov in round five. Ivanov and
Ippolito tied for 2nd-3rd places
with 5
1
2 points. Tied for 4th-6th
places with 5 points were Enkhbat,
IM Mikhail Zlotnikov, and Srdjan
Darmanovic. Other section
winners were:
U2200 section: 1st-2nd: Francisco Colorado Morales and Jeevan
Karamsetty (5
1
2).
U1900 section: 1st-2nd: Meghesh Pansari and Ian Morton (5
1
2).
U1600 section: 1st: Leo Keats (6
1
2) and 2nd-3rd: William Overman
and Ryan Xu (5
1
2).
Special Prizes: 26 Upset prizes were awarded. The biggest upset
was a 628-point rout won by Louis Fedele.
Best Played Game: 1st to Kaidanov; 2nd to Ippolito; 3rd to
GM Lawrence Kaufman.
Brilliancy: 1st to Kaufman; 2nd/3rd to Bruce Altschuler,
Jonathan Richman, and Charles Yang.
Opening Innovation: 1st to GM Kaidanov; 2nd to Kaufman;
3rd to Tom Beckman.
Ivanov won the four-round Eastern Open Warmup Tourney, and Dmitry
Vekilov won the Eastern Open Blitz Championship.
Tournament Directors (TDs):
Brennan Price was the head TD and Ernie Schlich was associate TD.
Scotch Gambit (C44)
Jared Defibaugh (2336)
GM Larry Kaufman (2459)
Notes by Kaufman and
Beckman
1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 Nc6 3. d4 cxd4 4.
Bc4
The Scotch Gambit with
transposition into the Max
Lange in some cases.
4. ... Bc5
Also quite playable is 4. ...
Nf6 with the Two Knights
Defense, and now either 5.
0-0, 5. e5, or 5. Ng5.
5. 0-0
This move is given a dubi-
ous mark by Encyclopedia of
Chess Openings, but it is not
that bad. Slightly better is 5.
c3 Nf6! 6. cxd4 Bb4+ leading
to a main line Giuoco Piano.
5. ... d6
Or 5. ... Nf6.
6. c3 Bg4 7. Qb3 Bxf3 8. Bxf7+ Kf8
9. Bxg8?
Equal is 9. gxf3 dxc3 (or 9.
... Nf6) 10. Bxg8 Rxg8 11.
Nxc3 Qf6 12. Nd5.
9. ... Rxg8 10. gxf3
After 10. gxf3
10. ... Qd7!
10. ... g5 is more common
and also strong, but I now
believe my move is best.
11. Nd2
Slightly better than the
game move is 11. Kg2 Re8 12.
Bf4 (12. Qxb7 g5) 12. ... g5
13. Bg3 h5 14. h3 g4 15. fxg4
hxg4 16. h4 Rxe4 17. Qxb7
Kg7 18. b4 but Black is on
top.
11. ... g5!
This appears to be a novelty
and is the best move.
12. Kh1 Rg6
Also good for Black is 12. ...
Rb8 13. cxd4 Bxd4 14. Rg1
Qf7 15. Nf1 Bxf2.
13. Rg1
13. cxd4 Nxd4 is also strong
for Black.
13. ... dxc3 14. Qxc3 Bd4?!
I should take on f2 first of
course; I wrongly feared 15.
Qh8+, but this just exchanges
queens to my advantage.
Deciding on the best sequence
of bishop moves is the prob-
lem to be solved. Black would
be close to winning after 14. ...
Bxf2 15. Rg2 Bd4 16. Qd3 Re8
17. Nf1 h6 18. Be3 Bb6.
15. Qb3 Bxf2
Slightly better is 15. ... Rb8
16. Nf1 Bxf2 17. Rg2 Bd4 18.
Ng3 Qf7.
16. Rg2 Bb6 17. Nc4 Qg7?!
Black is still much better
after 17. ... h6 18. f4.
18. Ne3?!
Here White misses 18. Rxg5
Ke7 19. Rxg6 Qxg6 20. Nxb6
axb6 21. Be3 Qe6 with near
equality.
18. ... Nd4
Slightly better is 18. ... Qf7
19. Nf5 Qxb3 20. axb3 Ne5
21. Bxg5 Nxf3 22. Bh6+ Ke8
23. Rxg6 hxg6 24. Nxd6 cxd6
25. Rf1 Kd7 and Black is
much better.
19. Qd3 Qe5?
I was planning to play 19. ...
Re8! but foolishly changed my
mind. Too bad that Black slips
up. Larry could keep a big
edge after 19. ... Re8 20. Bd2
Ne6 21. Qc2 Bxe3 22. Bxe3
Rf6 23. Rf1 Qf7 24. Rg3 h6.
20. Nc4
Now White has equalized.
20. ... Qb5 21. Rxg5 Rxg5 22. Bxg5
Ne6?
I foresaw 24. e5! but dis-
missed it due to 24. ... d5,
which I later saw loses out-
right. And now the bad thing
happens. Black is equal after
22. ... Qxg5 23. Nxb6 axb6
24. Qxd4 Qe5 25. Qf2 Ke8.
23. Bh6+ Kg8 24. e5! dxe5?
Black could prolong resist-
ance with 24. ... Bd4 25. exd6
Qh5 26. Bd2 Qg6 27. Qxg6+
hxg6.
25. a4! Qe8 26. Nxb6 axb6 27.
Rg1+ Kh8 28. Qf5, Black resigned.
r+-wq-mkr+
zppzp-+-zpp
-+nzp-+-+
+-vl-+-+-
-+-zpP+-+
+QzP-+P+-
PzP-+-zP-zP
tRNvL-+RmK-

CL_03-2012_Eastern_AKF_r11_chess life 2/13/12 4:19 PM Page 25
Womens World Champ
Former USCF president WIM Beatriz Marinello shares her reporters
notebook report from Albania:
Behind the Scenes at the Womens World Chess Championship
Two Americans were involved in the organization of the match,
Deputy Chief Arbiter Carol Jarecki, who is an international
arbiter, and your reporter, a FIDE vice president who was addi-
tionally appointed as a member of the appeals committee. This
experience gave me a unique inside look at this world champi-
onships production.
Republic of Albania Hosts a World Class Chess Event for the First Time
When the World Chess Federation (FIDE) announced that the
Womens World Championship match was scheduled to take place
in Albania, this caused a bit of a stir. Why Albania? Wouldnt it make
more sense to host this important World Championship match either
in China or India? So one would think.
Together, GMs Hou Yifan and Humpy Koneru represent 2.5 bil-
lion people. Chinas population is now over 1.3 billion, the largest
of any country and India has over 1.21 billion people, the second
most populous. Thats over one third of humanity! A countrys pop-
ulation holds little weight when it comes down to where these
events will be hosted. Many things are involved in this decision.
For instance, the Indian Chess Federation was not able to final-
ize a bid due to internal issues and the Chinese Chess Association
presented a bid of a $132,000 prize fund for the match, but their
bid was not competitive enough to be accepted. However, the
finances were not the main reason the Chinese Chess Association
lost the bidafter all, they could easily find a corporation willing
to sponsor the event. The deal breaker came down to the dates.
They wanted to host the match in March 2012 and FIDE wanted
the event to take place in 2011. So, Albania took the prize.
Its preferable to organize the match in a neutral country.
How Could Albania Become the Hosting Country for This Event?
One person can make a difference. Albania turned out to be a great
option. A young nation located in southeastern Europe, in the
Balkans region, Albania has a very limited chess history, and has
never before organized a world class chess competition. However,
their bid included a higher prize fund of $267,000. The match was

GM Hou Yifan Re
2.5 billion p
CL_03-2012_womens_world_championship_AKF_r8_chess life 2/10/12 8:39 PM Page 26
By WIM BEATRIZ MARINELLO, FIDE VICE PRESIDENT | Photos Courtesy of FIDE
Retains Her Title
potential fans cant be wrong.
Former Soviet Union president Mikhail Gorbachev
awards the World Championship title to GM Hou Yifan.
Humpy Koneru watches on far right.
CL_03-2012_womens_world_championship_AKF_r8_chess life 2/10/12 8:40 PM Page 27
Womens World Champ
sponsored by Taci Oil International, whose CEO, Tai Rezart, is
also the president of the Albanian Chess Federation. I congrat-
ulated the chief sponsor for hosting the event and asked him,
Did chess contribute to your success? He smiled and nodded.
One thing is clear, Mr. Tai Rezart made a difference for chess
in Albania by sponsoring this event and putting them on the
chess map. As a young person, Tai Rezart was a junior chess
champion who gave up playing chess when he was not allowed
to participate internationally due to the Communist travel
restriction. Albania currently has a democratic system. Tai, stud-
ied in Italy and eventually returned to his country, becoming a
successful businessman and never forgetting his ties to chess.
The Womens World Chess Championship Cycle
There has been some debate about the value of organizing a
world championship just for women. Unlike most sports,
women are able to compete against men in chess. The
worlds top-rated female player for the past 20 years,
Judit Polgar (and by far the highest FIDE-rated woman in
chess history), has never competed for the womens title.
Good arguments can be made about the importance of
organizing this event considering the small percentage of
female chess players. The good news is that more girls and
women are playing chess these days, and the number of
female players over 2500 FIDE rating is increasing.
Scholastic chess is making the most difference in attract-
ing girls to the game.
The Womens World Championship Cycle includes:
National chess championships
Zonal tournaments
Continental chess championships
The events mentioned above are the qualifiers for the Womens
World Chess Championship (knockout tournament with 64
players). At this point, the task is to select the top 18 players
who will participate in the Womens Grand Prix.
The Womens World Championship (knockout) is used to deter-
mine four qualifiers.
The winner of the previous Womens Grand Prix qualifies (one).
Five qualifiers are selected by FIDE rating.
The FIDE president nominates two players.
Six players are nominated by the host cities of the Womens
Grand Prix. One player may be nominated by each organizer
and must be rated not less than 2300. If the host city does
not have a player rated at least 2300 then the highest-rated
player from the federation of the host city will be invited to
play, subject to her rating not being lower than 2250.
This qualification system produces the 14 players who will be invited
to play in the FIDE Womens Grand Prix. Its quite a process!
How do you become the challenger to the Womens World Champion?
To determine the challenger to the womens world champion,
the qualification process is based on the overall performance in
the FIDE Womens Grand Prix. The 20092011 cycle was a
series of six chess tournaments exclusively for women. The top
18 women players in the world were invited to compete in these
tournaments. Each player agreed to participate in exactly four
of these tournaments.
The 2009-2011 FIDE Womens Grand Prix included six tour-
naments:
Istanbul, Turkey, March 7-19, 2009
Nanjing, China, September 28-October 10, 2009
Nalchik, Russia, April 26-May 7, 2010
Jermuk, Armenia, June 24-July 5, 2010
Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, July 30-August 11, 2010
Doha, Qatar, February 23-March 5, 2011
GM Hou Yifan was the winner of the FIDE Womens Grand Prix
2009-2011, but she was already qualified to play in the
Womens World Chess Championship Match 2011 as the title
holder. The second best score in this competition was GM
Humpy Koneru, who qualified as the challenger for the title.
The Match
The players inspection of the playing hall and the choosing of
the chairs is not a trivial matter, since the players will spend
many hours sitting. Each player is presented with three to four
chairs, they pick the winning chair.
Opening Ceremony and Drawing the Colors
The opening ceremony took place on Sunday, November 13th,
2011, 7 p.m. local time, Tirana, Albania. There was a press con-
ference involving the main sponsor Mr. Tai Rezart, FIDE President
Kirsan Ilyumzhinov, GM Hou Yifan and GM Humpy Koneru.
Drawing the Colors
The main point of interest was the draw for colors. GM Humpy
Koneru drew the white pieces for game one. According to reg-
ulation, the colors shall be reversed after game four. The
player that gets the white pieces in game one shall play game
five with the black pieces.
I like the format, although you
should not choose what you
like, but, try to prove you are
the best in any system.
GM HOU YIFAN
I think its a good format. It also
gives good chances to everyone.
Its a great opportunity.
GM HUMPY KONERU
CL_03-2012_womens_world_championship_AKF_r8.qxp_chess life 2/10/12 11:11 AM Page 28
GM Hou Yifan
November FIDE Rating 2578
Born February 27, 1994 17 years old
Country: China
GM Hou Yifan became the youngest ever world chess
champion in history (mens or womens) when she won
the Women's World Championship at age 16. She is the
youngest female chessplayer in history (at the age of 14
years 6 months) to qualify for the title of grandmaster. At
the age of 12, she became and still holds the record for
being the youngest player ever to participate at the FIDE
Womens World Championship.
THE PLAYERS
GM Humpy Koneru
November FIDE Rating 2600
Born March 31, 1987 24 years old
Country: India
GM Humpy Koneru became the second female
player ever, to exceed the 2600 FIDE rating mark,
after Judit Polgar. From 2002 through 2008,
Humpy held the record as the youngest woman to
ever become a grandmaster (not just a woman
grandmaster), which she achieved at the age of 15
years, 1 month, 27 days, beating Judit Polgars
previous mark by three months.
Anti-Cheating Procedures
After the FIDE World Championship Match between Vladimir
Kramnik and Veselin Topalov, FIDE has been taking steps to
neutralize and avoid any perceptions of cheating at FIDE
events. I dont think that either Kramnik or Topalov cheated,
and furthermore I truly believe that in order to become a top
grandmaster, you must be an exceptional player, and you
dont make it there unless you are an amazing player.
In this match, FIDE took safeguards to protect the players from
any perceptions of wrong doing:
a) The players were not permitted to bring telephones, tech-
nical gadgets and/or other equipment into the playing
area. Deputy Chief Arbiter IA Carol Jarecki used a metal
detector to scan the players and their belongings prior to
each game.
b) The players were requested to communicate with an
arbiter in the case of a draw offer. During the playing ses-
sion, a player may leave the playing area only with the
permission of the chief arbiter and only if she is accom-
panied by one of the arbiters. There were bathrooms
that were allocated only for the players and inspected prior
to each game.
c) There was an 8 x 8 foot glass wall barrier separating the
playing stage from the audience.
Game 3
The breakthrough of the match took place
in game three. After 37 hard-fought
moves, GM Koneru resigned, handing
GM Yifan a 2-1 lead.
Queens Gambit Declined,
Ragozin Defense (D38)
GM Humpy Koneru (FIDE 2600, IND)
GM Hou Yifan (FIDE 2578, CHN)
Womens World Championship Match,
Game 3
1. d4 e6 2. c4 Nf6 3. Nf3 d5 4. Nc3 Bb4
After this move, now we have the
Queens Gambit Declined, Ragozin Vari-
ation.
5. cxd5 exd5 6. Bg5 h6 7. Bh4 c5 8. e3 c4 9.
Be2 g5 10. Bg3 Ne4 11. Rc1 Qa5 12. Ne5
This position was played in the Veselin
Topalov-Levon Aronian game at the 2011
Amber Blindfold.
12. ... Bxc3+
12. ... Nxc3 13. bxc3 Bxc3+ 14. Kf1 is
a difficult position to evaluate. Black is up
a pawn, but Whites position is solid,
with good chances on the kingside. GM
Hou Yifan avoided the line as GM Aron-
ian did at the Amber Tournament.
13. bxc3 Nc6
If 13. ... Nxc3? 14. Qd2 wins a knight
for two pawns after 14. ... Qxa2 15. Qxc3.
14. 0-0 0-0
14. ... Nxc3 would have transposed to
the Topalov-Aronian game, but after 15.
Rxc3 Qxc3 16. Bh5 0-0 17. Qf3 Nd8 18.
Qf6 Qc2 19. Ng4 Bxg4 20. Be5 Aronian
not only survived this massive attack but
also won the game. Of course, this was a
blindfolded game.
15. Bf3 Nxg3
Necessary move to ensure that White
will not keep the dark-square bishop.
16. fxg3 Nxe5 17. dxe5 Be6 18. Bh5?!
Dubious move. Its better to defend the
pawn on a2 with 18. Rf2. Humpy admit-
ted after the match that she took too
many risks. This move makes that point.
18. ... Qxa2 19. Rf6 Qb2!
This move paralyzes the white pieces,
and it does not allow good coordination
between the queen and the rooks to con-
tinue with the attack. If 19. ... Kg7 20. Qf3
followed by 21. Rf1 when White has com-
pensation for the pawn.
After 19. ... Qb2
20. Rxh6 Bf5!
Preventing good coordination for the
white heavy pieces.
21. Rf6 Be4 22. Bf3
22. Rf2 offers better prospects for
White. If 22. ... Qb6, then 23. Qd4.
22. ... Bd3! 23. Qe1 Rae8 24. Bxd5 Rxe5 25.
e4 Kg7 26. Rf2 Qb6 27. Qd2 Rd8!
After 27. ... Rd8
Complete freedom for the black pieces.
The f7-pawn has been targeted, but now
its no longer a concern. So, both rooks
can contribute to the victory.
28. Qb2 f5 29. Qxb6 axb6 30. Bxb7 fxe4 31.
Rb2 Re7
This move and the following rook move
are defending the b6-pawn by sneaky
pins.
32. Bc6 Rd6 33. Ba4 e3 34. Re1 e2 35. Bc2
Rf7 36. Bxd3 cxd3 37. Rd2 Rdf6, White
resigned.
r+-+-trk+
zpp+-+p+-
-+-+ltR-zp
+-+pzP-zpL
-+p+-+-+
+-zP-zP-zP-
-wq-+-+PzP
+-tRQ+-mK-
-+-tr-+-+
zpp+-+pmk-
-wq-+-+-+
+-+Ltr-zp-
-+p+P+-+
+-zPl+-zP-
-+-wQ-tRPzP
+-tR-+-mK-
Womens World Champ
Name Title Nat Rtng 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Total Perf
Hou Yifan GM CHN 2578
1
2
1
2 1
1
2
1
2 1 1
1
2 5
1
2 2741
Humpy Koneru GM IND 2600
1
2
1
2 0
1
2
1
2 0 0
1
2 2
1
2 2437
NAT = NATI ONALI TY RTNG = RATI NG PERF = PERFORMANCE RATI NG
WOMENS WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP 2011 NOVEMBER 14-30 | TIRANA, ALBANIA
The 2011 FIDE Womens World Chess Championship Match between the current World Champion GM Hou Yifan of China and her challenger, GM Humpy Koneru
of India, was held at the Tirana International Hotel in Albania from November 14 to 30.
The Womens World Chess Championship was scheduled as a ten-game match. According to regulations, the first player to reach 5
1
2 points or more takes the
title. GM Hou Yifan was declared the winner after eight games, with 5
1
2 points.
The prize fund was $267,000, for which GM Hou Yifan received 60 percent and GM Humpy Koneru 40 percent.
THE GAMES
This match was surprisingly one-sided, in favor of the reigning champion, GM Hou Yifan. It ended after eight games, with a final
score of 5
1
2 points versus 2
1
2 points.
In games one and two, GM Humpy Koneru put pressure on the title holder, but GM Hou Yifan skillfully equalized both those
games and drew, proving yet again why she is the womens world champion.
CL_03-2012_womens_world_championship_AKF_r8_chess life 2/13/12 10:04 AM Page 30
In my conversation with the challenger
GM Koneru said: After the third round
loss, I wanted to come back. In games four
and five, I had two blacks in a row and I
tried some openings that I never played
before and those games ended in draws.
Prior to game six, GM Hou Yifan was
taken to the hospital due to severe stomach
pain. She spent several hours undergoing
examination and tests. The doctors opin-
ion was that the pain resulted from stress
or unfamiliar food. In any case, the doctor
said that she could play the next day.
Game 6
The day of game six, another decisive
result was produced which gave GM Hou
Yifan a huge lead in the match.
Ragozin Defense (D38)
Game 6
1. d4 e6 2. c4 Nf6 3. Nf3 d5 4. Nc3 Bb4 5.
Qa4+
In game three, White played 5. cxd5
exd5 6. Bg5.
5. ... Nc6 6. e3 0-0 7. Bd2 dxc4 8. Bxc4 Bd6
This position has been played in two top
level games, Teimour Radjabov-Kramnik,
Dortmund 2003 and Ruslan Ponomariov-
Kramnik, Tata Steel 2011. In both games,
White played 9. Nb5 and were draws.
9. Qc2 a6 10. a3 e5 11. dxe5 Nxe5 12. Nxe5
Bxe5 13. f4 Bxc3 14. Bxc3 Qe7 15. 0-0
Another possibility is 15. Bd4 b6 16. b4
Ng4 17. 0-0 Nxe3 18. Qe2 Nf5 19. Qxe7
Nxe7 20. Be5 with an even game.
15. ... Qxe3+ 16. Kh1 Qb6 17. f5
White is a pawn down, but has compen-
sation for the material.
17. ... Bd7 18. Bb4 Rfe8 19. Rad1 Qc6 20.
Qb3 Kh8 21. Rc1 Qb6 22. Bxf7 Re5 23. Bc3
Qxb3 24. Bxb3 Re3 25. Bc4 Rae8 26. Bd4
R3e7 27. Ba2 Re2
After 27. ... Re2
28. Bf7
In time trouble, GM Koneru missed a
more ambitious line, which can lead to a
complicated game, but much better than the
game continuation. 28. Rxc7 Bc6 29. Rg1
Rd8 30. Bc4 Rxg2 31. Rxg2 Rxd4 32. Rc8+.
28.. ... R8e7 29. Bc4 R2e4 30. Bc5 Re8 31.
Bf7 R8e5
After 31. ... R8e5
32. Ba2?!
Here its necessary to play 32. Bb4 Bc6
33. Kg1 Re2 34. Rxc6 bxc6 35. Bc4 when
White is doing fine.
32.. ... Bc6 33. Rg1 Re2 34. Bd4 Rxf5 35. Bc4
Rd2 36. Bc3 Ne4 37. Rge1 Ng3+ 38. hxg3
Rh5+, White resigned.
GM Hou Yifan plays very precise in
defensive positions, and is able to mate-
rialize small advantages.
Game 7
GM Humpy Koneru suffered a devastat-
ing loss, putting her on the brink of losing
the match with a score, in favor of GM
Hou Yifan, of 5 points versus 2 points.
On the brink
Game 7
After 27. Rd2
27. ... h5
Strategically, it makes more sense to
play 27. ... Nc5 aiming to neutralize the
white bishop.
28. Qh6 Nf4 29. Ne2 Qf6?!
29. ... Ne6 holding the position.
30. Nxf4 exf4
Its not easy to defend the f4-pawn.
31. Rd3 Rfe8 32. Rf3 Rd7 33. Rxf4 Qg7 34.
Qg5 Re5 35. Qg3 Rde7 36. Rd1 g5 37. Rf5
Bxe4 38. Rxe5 Qxe5 39. Rxd6 Qxg3 40. fxg3
Bb7 41. Kf2 Kg7 42. Bd1 h4 43. gxh4 gxh4
44. Rd4 Be4 45. Bf3 Bxf3 46. Kxf3
White has a winning advantage and
the rest of the game was just technical.
46. ... Re1 47. Rxh4 Rb1 48. Rb4 Kf6 49. Ke3
Ke5 50. Re4+ Kd5 51. Rd4+ Ke5 52. Rd2 f5
53. Kd3 Kf4 54. Rf2+ Kg3 55. Rxf5 Rxb2 56.
Rg5+ Kh4 57. Rg6 a5 58. Rg4+ Kh5 59. Re4
Kg6 60. Re2 Rb3 61. Ra2 b4 62. axb4 axb4
63. Rc2 Ra3 64. Kd4 bxc3 65. Rxc3 Ra2 66.
Rg3+ Kh5 67. Ke3 Ra3+ 68. Kf2 Ra2+ 69.
Kg1 Ra1+ 70. Kh2 Ra2 71. Rd3 Ra5 72. Rd4
Rb5 73. h4 Rb3 74. g3 Rb1 75. Kh3 Rh1+ 76.
Kg2 Ra1 77. Rd5+ Kh6 78. Kh3 Ra3 79. Re5
Ra4 80. Re3 Ra6 81. g4 Ra1 82. Re6+ Kg7
83. h5 Rh1+ 84. Kg3 Rf1 85. Kh4 Rf7 86. Kg5
Kh7 87. h6 Ra7 88. Kh5 Rb7 89. g5 Rb5 90.
Re7+ Kg8 91. Kg6 Rb6+ 92. Kf5 Rb5+ 93.
Kf6 Rb6+ 94. Re6 Rb8 95. g6 Kh8 96. Re5
Ra8 97. Kg5, Black resigned.
Game 8 ended the match. A draw was
enough to give GM Hou Yifan the victory
with 5
1
2 points.
A Memorable Closing Ceremony
The closing ceremony of the World
Womens Chess Championship match
was held on November 30th at the Pres-
idential Palace.
Mikhail Gorbachev, the former head
of USSR, who was awarded the Nobel
Peace Prize in 1990 for his leading role
in the peace process which today charac-
terizes important parts of the
international community and who
recently accepted the honorary position
as patron of FIDEs program Chess in
Schools was in attendance. He was
invited by his friend, FIDE President Kir-
san Ilyumzhinov.
The first thing we should always think
about is kids, their education and oppor-
tunities, said Gorbachev at the ceremony.
Also among the distinguished guests
was Mr. Tai Rezart.
FIDE officials joined Gorbachev and
Ilyumzhinov in congratulating the reigning
world champion, 17-year-old Chinese
chess prodigy, GM Hou Yifan and her chal-
lenger GM Humpy Koneru from India. .
See more about the Championship on Chess
Life Online, uschess.org, November archives,
including a report from Carol Jarecki.
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uschess.org
College Chess
fter round 1 of the Pan Amer-
ican Intercollegiate Team
Chess Championship (Pan
Am), I asked Lone Star Col-
lege freshman Logan Thoeni which team
he thought would win. Logan asked,
Who are the top teams? Round 1 was
Logans first USCF-rated game (see the
Lone Star College sidebar). Not surpris-
ingly, he was unaware of the epic
matches to come in rounds 2-6. So I
filled him in on the Pan Am contenders.
The top seed, I told Logan, is The
University of Texas at Brownsville (UTB)
A team, which boasts an average USCF
rating of 2616. Other high-ranked A
teams include Texas Tech University
(Texas Tech) at 2614, The University of
Texas at Dallas (UT Dallas) at 2567,
and the University of Maryland, Balti-
more County (UMBC) at 2520.
The UT Dallas A team prevailed with
six match wins in 2011, a repeat of its
2010 result. UMBC was second, with 5-
1. Texas Tech A and New York University
(NYU) both finished with 4
1
2-1
1
2. Texas
Tech took the third place trophy on
tiebreak and NYU finished fourth. UTB
A, which scored 4-2, finished fifth on
tiebreak over UT Dallas B (sixth place),
UTB B (seventh place), and University
of Toronto A (eighth place, and top inter-
national team). For one game from the
University of Toronto A team, see the
Lone Star College sidebar.
The top four Pan Am finishers qualified
for the 2012 Presidents Cup, known as the
Final Four of College Chess, to be held
March 30-April 1 in Herndon, Virginia.
The 2012 Final Four is sponsored by Booz
Allen Hamilton, which also sponsored the
2011 Final Four won by Texas Tech.
The 2011 Pan Am, held December 27-
30 in Fort Worth, was co-hosted by UT
Dallas and the Dallas Chess Club and
was sponsored by the USCF. UT Dallas
gave a Chess II scholarship to the winner
of the Pan American Scholastic Chess
Championship, FM Jeffery Xiong. More
about the Chess II scholarship can be
found at www.utdallas.edu/chess/ and
The 2011
Pan American
Intercollegiate
Championships
A

Winning Streak: UT Dallas Champs Again
By DR. ALEXEY ROOT, WIM
CL_03-2012_Pan_Am_AKF_r9.qxp_chess life 2/10/12 10:16 AM Page 32
more information about the Pan Am Inter-
collegiate and Scholastic (along with the
Pan Am Open and Class side events) is at
swchess.com/.
Jefferys favorite game was his win
against Dion Su, a high school student
that Jeffery had previously played several
times at the Dallas Chess Club.
When NYU scored two wins and two
losses its round 2 match with Texas Tech,
the UT Dallas Chess Program Director
(Jim Stallings) and the UTB Chess Pro-
gram Director (Russell Harwood) told me
that the tie match was big news. Not only
was the second-ranked team held to a tie,
but the highest-rated player in the Pan
Am (GM Georg Meier) was defeated.
Unfortunately, the games of that match
were not broadcast. Although Pan Am
games played in rounds 2-6 by UT Dal-
las and UTB students are available via the
MonRoi website (http://www.monroi.
com/), most students from other colleges
used paper score sheets.
Reti Opening (A07)
IM Zhe Quan (2451, NYU)
GM Georg Meier (2770, Texas Tech)
Pan Am Intercollegiate (2)
Annotations by IM Doug Root.
1. Nf3 d5 2. g3 Bg4 3. Bg2 e6 4. 0-0 Nd7 5.
d3 c6 6. h3 Bh5 7. Nbd2 Bd6 8. e4 Ne7 9.
Qe1 0-0 10. Nh4 Qc7 11. Nb3
After 11. Nb3
White chooses the Kings Indian Attack,
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University of Texas at Dallas A team (left to right): GM Valentin Yotov,
GM Julio Sadorra, TD Francisco Guadalupe in background, GM Cristian
Chirila, IM Salvijus Bercys, IM Conrad Holt & IM Milos Pavlovic
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uschess.org
College Chess
Ruy Lopez, Classical Defense (C65)
Haizhou Xu (2080, University of Toronto A)
Logan Thoeni (unrated, Lone Star College)
1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 Nc6 3. Bb5 Nf6 4. 0-0 Bc5 5.
c3 0-0 6. d4 Bb6 7. Bg5 d6
Haizhou recommended instead 7. ...
h6.
8. Bxc6 bxc6 9. dxe5 dxe5 10. Qxd8 Rxd8
11. Nxe5 Ba6
Haizhou thought this was a good
move by Logan.
12. Re1 Re8?
Haizhou suggested complicating the
position with 12. ... Nxe4 13. Bxd8
Bxf2+ 14. Kh1 Bxe1 Nxc6. With the text
move, Black is a pawn down with no
compensation.
13. Bxf6 gxf6 14. Nd7 Ba5?
Allows a devastating fork.
15. Nxf6+
And White won.
In round two, board two player
Matthew Trujillo won. Matthews dream
is to operate his own chess-teaching
business. He has already taught for
USA Chess. Matthew is one course away
from finishing his associate of arts
degree at Lone Star College.
Queens pawn opening (D02)
Matthew Trujillo (1562, Lone Star College)
Shahab Samimi (1418, Florida Atlantic
University)
1. d4 d5 2. Nf3 Nf6 3. e3 Bg4 4. Bd3 Nc6 5.
Nbd2 e5 6. dxe5 Nxe5 7. Be2 Nxf3+ 8. Nxf3
g6 9. b3 Bg7 10. Bb2 0-0 11. 0-0 Re8 12. h3
Bf5 13. c4 c5
Matthew felt good about 13. c4, because
if Black had recaptured with 13. ... dxc4
he would recapture 14. Bxc4 and follow
up with the idea of Ng5, hitting Blacks f-
pawn.
14. cxd5 Qxd5 15. Bc4 Qxd1 16. Rfxd1 Ne4
17. Bxg7 Kxg7 18. g4 Be6 19. Bxe6 Rxe6
20. Rd7 b6 21. Rad1 a5 22. a4
Matthew said, I learned how to freeze
the pawn structure from Silmans
books.
22. ... Kf6 23. R1d5
Matthew said, I thought about 23.
Lone Star College
Lone Star College-CyFair (northwest of
Houston, Texas) had a chess club in
some past years. But an application
from five students to revive the club
was delayed due to lack of a faculty
advisor. When Todd Thomas joined
the faculty in the spring of 2011, he
discovered the pending chess club
application at the Student Life office.
He recalled, I didnt think Id know
any of the five, since there are over
18,000 students at our two-year col-
lege. But one, Amy, was a student in
one of my math courses! Thomas
told the students that he would be
their chess club advisor. The chess
club began meeting twice-a-week at
lunch in the fall of 2011. Thomas
said, Sometimes space in the cafete-
ria is a problem, as we only have four
tables for chess. Once, we had 22 stu-
dents show up.
The clubs first USCF-rated event,
since Thomas began as club advisor,
was the Texas Collegiate Champi-
onships October 29-30, 2011. Lone
Star College placed third out of four
teams. At the Pan Am, Lone Star College
finished in 26th place out of 28 teams.
Thomas plans to improve the chess results of Lone Star College. He has the chess skills to do so, having won (or tied for first)
in both the Texas Open and the Texas Rapid Championships in 1992-1993. He also holds the original life master title.
Thomas brought six Lone Star College students to the Pan Am. Thomas said, Our thanks go to Lone Star College Pres-
ident Audre Levy, Vice President Richard Weldon, and Director of Student Life Daniel Villanueva. With their support, the
chess clubs transportation, hotel, chess equipment, and food were covered for the Pan Am.
In several matches, more experienced opponents overwhelmed Thomas chess club members. University of Toronto A
was the top team that Lone Star College faced. Toronto A won the match 4-0. Annotations are from the games post mortem.
From left to right: John Lewis, Manuel Lopez, Logan Thoeni, Faculty Advisor Todd Thomas,
Kavian Rowghani, Ethan Seale, Matthew Trujillo
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which can be learned with an economy of
memorization. The move order for White
is quite flexible and rarely is there a sharp
opening novelty that requires prepara-
tion. These factors make this opening a
pragmatic choice against an elite player
such as Meier. The more thematic move in
this position is 11. f4; however, 11. Nb3
has been played before and attempts to
free the queens bishop immediately.
11. ... c5
Previously, Black has tried 11. ... dxe4
12. dxe4 f6, with the idea of retreating the
bishop to f7. Instead, Meier takes advan-
tage of the slightly awkward position of
the knight on b3 by pushing his c-pawn
towards c4. During the next series of
moves, Black will expand on the queen-
side while White tries to build up an
attack on the kingside.
12. g4 Bg6 13. f4 c4 14. dxc4 dxc4 15. Nd4 Bc5
16. Be3 Qb6 17. c3 e5 18. fxe5 Nxe5 19. b4
cxb3 e.p. 20. axb3 a5 21. Kh1 N7c6 22. Nhf5
After 22. Nhf5
Probably a more flexible plan would be
to defend the knight on d4 with 22. Rd1,
in order to leave the option of taking the
bishop on g6 with the knight on h4 should
circumstances in the position favor gain-
ing the advantage of the two bishops and
doubling Blacks pawns on the kingside.
The knight on f5 looks nice, but it does
very little at the moment. By waiting on
h4 the knight would retain the options of
either jumping to f5, if appropriate, or
capturing the bishop on g6.
22. ... Rfe8 23. Rd1 Qa6?
Black had developed a nice position,
but 23. ... Qa6 gives White the initiative.
The queen is better placed on b6 where
it puts pressure on both d4 and the pawn
on b3. On a6, the queen will quickly
become vulnerable to attack during a
white bishop repositioning via Bf1-c4.
Whites ability to gain time by this maneu-
ver will make his kingside attack more
dangerous. Instead of 23. ... Qa6, Black
should have played the natural 23. ...
Rad8 with a very comfortable position.
24. Qg3 Bf8 25. Bf4 f6?
Black likes the idea of reinforcing his
well-placed knight on e5 and enabling
the possible activation of his bishop via f7;
however, the pawn on f6 makes it possi-
ble for White to open more lines against
Blacks king with 26. g5. Whites enhanced
attack will make it necessary for Black to
keep his bishop on g6 for defense.
26. g5 fxg5 27. Bxg5 Nf7 28. Be3 Nce5 29. Rf4!
This rook lift puts added pressure on
the black king not only from the rooks
mobility but, also as mentioned in the
note to the 23rd move, because White
can direct his bishop at the black king
with tempo via Bg2-f1-c4. In addition the
white bishop can move to b5 where it
harasses the black rook.
29. ... a4
Perhaps it is safer to play 29. ... Rac8,
but Black feels the need to take action on
the queenside before Whites attack on the
kingside becomes overwhelming.
30. Bf1
After 30. Bf1
30. ... Qb6??
Black had to play 30. ... Qa5 to meet 31.
bxa4 with 31. ... Qxc3 regaining the pawn.
Instead, 30. ... Qb6 loses a pawn and
the game, since Black will not be able to
recapture the pawn on a4 due to the fork
of his two rooks by the white bishop mov-
ing to b5. In addition, Blacks queen on
b6 is vulnerable to discovered attacks
from the white bishop on e3 after the
knight on d4 moves.
31. bxa4!
Perhaps, Meier had expected 31. Bb5
when Black could try to mix things up
with an Exchange sacrifice 31. ... axb3!
32. Bxe8 Rxe8 33. Rb1 b2, but Whites
move avoids these complications.
31. ... Bh5 32. Re1 Ng6?
Black is concerned about his lost pawn,
but he needed to move his queen off of the
white bishops diagonal with 32. ... Qg6.
In the game continuation, White should
finish Black off with 33. Nxg7!!, since if ...
Bxg7, then 34. Rxf7 Kxf7 35. Bc4+, and
Black cannot move his king to e7 due to
36. Nf5+ attacking the black king and
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After 22. a4
g5+ but decided to prepare it. Delay-
ing g5 gives Black a chance to
blunder.
23. ... h6 24. h4 g5 25. Rf5+ Kg6 26.
Ne5+ Kg7 27. Rfxf7 Kg8 28. Rg7+ Kf8
29. Rdf7+ Ke8 30. Rg8 mate.
One can sense Todd Thomas
excitement about his chess club in
his light annotations to this round
five win by his board three player.
Ruy Lopez, Birds Defense (C61)
Alexander Emmons (unrated,
Yale University)
Manuel Lopez (unrated,
Lone Star College)
1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 Nc6 3. Bb5 Nd4!!
Manuel discovers Birds Defense to
the Ruy Lopez on his own and fol-
lows Birds idea to the letter!
4. Nxd4 exd4 5. 0-0 Bc5 6. d3 c6! 7.
Ba4?! Ne7 8. Nd2 d5! 9. exd5 Nxd5 10.
Ne4 Be7 11. Re1 0-0 12. Qf3? Qa5!
After 12. ... Qa5
Henry Bird smiles in his grave.
13. Bd2 Qxa4 14. b3 Qa3 15. c4 dxc3
e.p. 16. Nxc3 Nxc3 17. Bxc3 f6 18. Re2
Bb4 19. Bb2 Qa5 20. d4 Qg5 21. a3?
Bg4!, White resigned.
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uschess.org
College Chess
the queen simultaneously. Also, 33.
Nxg7!! Nxf4 fails due to 34. Nxe8+ Bg6 35.
Bxf4 Rxe8 36. Bb5 and Black cannot
capture the pawn on e4 because his
bishop on g6 is pinned.
33. Rf2? Rac8
Blacks move prevents Bc4. If instead
Black tries to regain his pawn with 33. ...
Rxe4, then White obtains a devastating
attack with 34. Bc4 (for example 34. ...
Ne5 35. Bd5 Nd3 36. Bxe4 Nxe1 37. Rf1
Re8 38. Bd5 Nd3 39. Nh6+) due to the
pressure against the pinned knight on f7.
White now demonstrates excellent tech-
nique in exploiting his extra pawn for
victory.
34. Bd2 Nge5 35. Bb5 Red8 36. Nh6+ Nxh6
37. Qxe5 Bf7 38. Ref1 Bd6 39. Qg5 Bc5 40.
Qh4 Bg6 41. Bxh6 Bxd4 42. cxd4 gxh6 43. d5
Qd4 44. Rf4 Rf8 45. Qg4 Qg7 46. d6 Kh8 47.
d7 Ra8 48. Rxf8+ Rxf8 49. Rxf8+ Qxf8 50.
Qh4, Black resigned.
There is no way to stop White from
promoting his queen pawn while Whites
bishop guards against back-rank checks,
so Black resigned. IM Zhe Quan pro-
duced an excellent game against a world
class grandmaster.
Round five produced some non-chess
news. Clad only in underwear and black ath-
letic shoes, a streaker ran, yelling, through
the playing area. He was tackled, lost a
shoe, and escaped through a side hallway.
Going into the sixth (and final) round,
UT Dallas A had won all its matches.
UTB A had lost to UMBC in round 4. So
UTB A needed a 2-2 tie with UT Dallas
to qualify for the Final Four. During round
6, Russell Harwood told me that the UTB
A students wanted to win the match
with UT Dallas. If UTB A won, it would
likely have the best tiebreak score. If so,
it would get the Pan Am first place trophy.
The match ended 3-1 in favor of UT Dal-
las. GM Julio Sadorra, who won the prize
for best third board performance, won
against GM Axel Bachmann.
English Opening,
Four Knights Variation (A28)
GM Julio Sadorra (2578, UT Dallas A)
GM Axel Bachmann (2633, UTB A)
Annotations by Julio Sadorra.
1. c4 e5 2. Nc3 Nf6 3. Nf3 Nc6 4. e4
This line was first pioneered by Nimzow-
itsch. Its main idea is to prevent Black
from getting the standard ... d7-d5 break
leading to reverse Sicilian positions.
4. ... Bb4 5. d3 0-0 6. g3 d6 7. Bg2 Bg4 8. h3
Bxf3 9. Bxf3 Nd4 10. Bg2
When preparing for the 2011 Chicago
Open, I learned the typical plans and ideas
of this position by looking at the games of
regular practitioners of this line: the Chi-
nese players, especially Bu Xiangzhi.
10. ... a5 11. 0-0 Bc5 12. Kh2 c6 13. Rb1 Nd7
After 13. ... Nd7
14. Be3
After 14. f4 exf4 15. gxf4 f5 I couldnt
see a way to put my bishop pair advan-
tage to good use as Black successfully
restricts both of them.
14. ... Ne6 15. Bd2 Nd4 16. Be3
Here I was willing to take a draw by rep-
etition because solid play was our policy
in this match to secure first place. The
position was approximately level anyway.
16. ... Rb8
Black decides to fight on and plans to
create play on the queenside.
17. a3 Ne6
Black changes his mind about the
queenside expansion. I planned to meet
17. ... b5 with 18. b4 axb4 19. axb4 Bb6
after which I realized that it may be objec-
tively best to proceed with 20. cxb5
(another possibility I saw in my game
analysis is 20. f4 Ra8 21. f5 Qe7 22. Qd2
which leads to double-edged play.) 20. ...
Nxb5 21. Nxb5 cxb5 22. d4 Ra8 23. Qd2
which I think should be equal.
18. Bd2
After 18. Bd2
18. ... Qe7
During the game I felt that this was an
inaccuracy because it subjects the a5-
pawn to discovered attacks. I don't think
its too late to revert to the initial plan with
18. ... b5 19. cxb5 cxb5 20. Nd5 Nf6! 21.
Nxf6+ Qxf6 22. Bxa5? b4! 23. axb4 Bxb4
24. Bxb4 Rxb4 25. Qd2 Rfb8 and Blacks
better minor piece and strong pressure on
the b-file are more than enough compen-
sation for the pawn.
19. f4!
Creating play on the other side of the
board will allow me to use discovered
attacking possibilities.
19. ... Nd4
19. ... exf4 20. gxf4 f5 does not work
anymore as Whites pieces could easily
regroup themselves while gaining a tempo
with 21. Ne2! Bb6 22. exf5 Rxf5 23. b4
axb4 24. axb4 Ra8 25. b5 and White is
better in both lines due to his bishop
pair and space advantage.
20. f5 b5 21. cxb5 Nxb5 22. Na4
Eyeing the weak flank pawn.
22. ... Qd8 23. g4 f6 24. h4 Bd4 25. g5 Nc5
26. Bf3
This is a typical attacking maneuver in
the Kings Indian Defense. The Indian
bishop travels from f3(f6)-h5(h4)-g6(g3)
followed by a queen invasion via h5(h4).
26. ... Kh8 27. Nxc5 Bxc5 28. Bh5 fxg5 29.
Bg6!?
At first I thought that this was a slight
inaccuracy because during the game I
saw that the simple 29. hxg5 should give
White a decisive attack e.g. 29. ... g6 30.
fxg6 Rb7 31. Rf7! with material advan-
tage while keeping the attack. However,
the line I chose was equally good.
29. ... g4!
After 29. ... g4
Resourceful defense from Axel. Resource-
fulness and tenacity in worse positions are
marks of a strong player. If 29. ... hxg6 I cal-
culated 30. fxg6 Rf4 (No better is 30. ... Rf6
31. Qh5+ Kg8 32. Qh7+ Kf8 33. Qh8+ Ke7
34. Qxg7+ Ke6 35. Bxg5) 31. Qh5+ Kg8 32.
hxg5 (controlling the escape squares on
the f-file) 32. ... Kf8 33. Rxf4+ exf4 34.
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Qh8+ Ke7 35. Qxg7+ Ke6 36. Qf7+ Ke5 37.
Bxf4+ Kd4 38. Qc4 mate.
30. Qxg4 Rf6 31. Bg5 Qg8 32. Qh5!
Delaying the exchange on f6 limits
Blacks possibilities. The path to victory
becomes thorny and blurry after 32. Bxf6
gxf6 33. Qh5 Qg7.
32. ... Nd4 33. Bxf6 gxf6 34. Rg1 Qg7
34. ... Nf3+ doesnt work because 35.
Qxf3 Bxg1+ 36. Rxg1 Rxb2+ 37. Kh3
hxg6 38. Rxg6 Qh7 39. Qe3 wins.
35. Rg2
At this stage Black is already running
low on time but is still able to come up
with traps. The direct approach doesnt
work due to 35. Bf7? Nf3+ 36. Qxf3 Bxg1+
37. Rxg1 Rxb2+ 38. Kh1 Qxf7 which is
better for Black.
35. ... Rg8
After 35. ... Rg8
36. b4!
Blacks queen and rook are tied up to
the defense of the king so White opens
another front and unleashes the power of
his rooks.
35. ... axb4 37. axb4 Bb6 38. Rbb2 Rf8 39. Ra2!
White relentlessly applies pressure,
which is more unpleasant when the oppo-
nent is in time trouble.
39. ... Nb5
After 39. ... Nb5
Axel misses my threat, but Whites
attack breaks through even after the
stubborn 39. ... Qe7 40. Rg3 Nb5 41.
Rag2 wins as White inevitably plays Bg6-
f7 next move.
40. Bf7!
A cute tactic that exploits Blacks weak
back rank.
40. ... Rxf7 41. Qxf7, Black resigned. .
See more from the Pan Ams on Chess Life
Online, uschess.org, December archives.
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2011 Pan American
Intercollegiate Chess
Festival At A Glance
Date: December 27-30, 2011
Location: Dallas Fort Worth
Airport Marriott South, Fort
Worth, Texas
Top Finishers: Intercollegiate1st
Team, 6: University of Texas at
Dallas A; 2nd Team, 5: University
of Maryland Baltimore County
(UMBC); 3rd-4th Team, 4
1
2: Texas
Tech A, New York University; 5th
Team, 4: University of Texas at
Brownsville A, University of Texas
at Dallas B, University of Texas at
Brownsville B, University of
Toronto A. Open1st-2nd, 5:
Renier Gonzalez, Francisco
Guadalupe II; U20001st-2nd,
4
1
2: Suchinder Kalyan, Aurelio
Gonzalez, Jr.; U18001st, 4
1
2:
Jason Metpally; U16001st, 5:
Haneesh Kaku; U1400, U1200,
U10001st-3rd, 5: Jie Liu, Nikita
Breslav, Andrew Tang;
Scholastic1st, 6: Jeffery Xiong.
Chief Tournament Director:
Francisco Guadalupe
Jeffery Xiong won a scholarship to UT Dallas by winning the 2011 Pan American Under-20
Scholastic Chess Championship.
P
H
O
T
O

A
L
E
X
E
Y

R
O
O
T
U.S. Chess League
The underdog New York Knights
T
he United States Chess League (USCL) playoff finale had everything you
look for in a championship match: a top seed from one conference; An under-
dog from the other; the league most-valuable-player coming through in the
clutch to help his team secure the championship. In the end, it was the surg-
ing New York Knights taking down the regular season champion and #1 overall
seed Chicago Blaze for the 2011 USCL title.
Outside the realm of U.S. chessers, the USCL is little known. Weekly matchups
pit teams from cities across the United States against one another, from East to
West Coast. The games, relayed on the Internet Chess Club (ICC), are easily acces-
sible. As long as you are a member, you can watch every game live. Unlike most
other countries, where leagues are played at various times and locations, the USCL
is played in the comfort of the neighborhood chess club. Playing behind the com-
puter screen does not make the competition any less fierce: 20 teams are
currently competing in the league and 30 grandmasters (GMs) participated this
year, not to mention countless other titled players and up-and-coming youngsters.
Seeing as each team must sport an average rating below 2401 USCF, the mix of
amateur and professional, young and old, becomes necessary and mutually
beneficial. If the 12-year-old master doesnt play, the retired GM cannot either.
In light of this, the USCL provides a pleasant and competitive atmosphere.
As for the season that was, it was all Chicago Blaze. During the regular sea-
son Chicago cruised to the top of the standings, finishing with an impressive record
of 8
1
2 out of 10. The Blaze torched the Western Division, ending two match points
over second seed Los Angeles Vibe and claiming home-field advantage through-
out the playoffs. This meant a 2-2 tie was enough to win a matchopponents
were forced to score at least 2
1
2-1
1
2, an incredibly tough feat against a team as
strong as Chicago. The Blaze used this to their advantage, scoring 2-2 against
Dallas Destiny in the Western Division semifinals before downing Los Angeles
2
1
2-1
1
2 in the Western finals. This set up their showdown with the #2 seed from
the Eastern Division, the New York Knights.
The New York Knights found themselves reaching the USCL Championship under
much different circumstances. After qualifying for the playoffs as the #2 seed after
an uninspired 6 out of 10 seasons, the Knights tied the Boston Blitz 2-2 in the
conference semifinals. Luckily for New York they owned the regular season
tiebreak over their rivals in Boston, so a tie meant they moved on to the confer-
ence championship game. There, they snuck by the Manhattan Applesauce in the
USCLs version of the Subway Series, 2
1
2-1
1
2 (New York would have moved on even
with a tie, as Manhattan, the #4 seed, upset the #1 Philadelphia Inventors). With
these two wins, the New York Knights were onto the championship match to face
the best of the Westwait, West?!the Chicago Blaze.
A LEAGUE WI
NEW YORK KNIGHTS
CHICAGO BLAZE
CL_03-2012_USCL_AKF_r9_chess life 2/10/12 12:03 PM Page 38
Fianchetto Gruenfeld Defense (D75)
GM Mesgen Amanov (2524)
GM Giorgi Kacheishvili (2590)
U.S. Chess League 2011 Playoff ICC INT
(3), 11.20.2011
1. d4 g6
This response probably came as a sur-
prise to MesgenGeorgi is inviting him to
play 2. e4 and transpose into relatively
unfamiliar territory. Mesgen was not
fazed.
2. c4 Bg7 3. Nc3 Nf6 4. Nf3 0-0 5. g3 d5 6.
cxd5 Nxd5 7. Bg2 Nxc3 8. bxc3 c5
The game has now transposed to the
main line of the Fianchetto Grnfeld.
9. 0-0 Nc6 10. e3 Bf5
At this stage both players are now out
of general theory and on their own.
11. Nh4 Bd7 12. Rb1 Na5 13. Qe2 Rc8 14.
Nf3 cxd4 15. cxd4
15. ... a6!
A very nice move by Georgi, getting his
light-square bishop to its best diagonal.
Perhaps 15. ... Be6 16. Re1 Bc4 17. Qd2
After 15. cxd4
b6 is good as well, but it does open up
Whites g2-bishop.
16. Re1
A normal response, but I admit I am
always tempted to sacrifice an Exchange.
Here, 16. Ba3!? Bb5 (An interesting try is
16. ... Nc4 but here White has nothing to
worry about after 17. Bc5 b6 18. Qxc4
bxc5 19. Qxa6 [19. dxc5!? Bb5 20. Rxb5
axb5 21. Qxb5 is unclear] 19. ... Bf5 20.
Rbc1) 17. Rxb5 axb5 18. Qxb5 would
result in a complex sacrifice of bishop
and pawn for rook. Im honestly not sure
which color Id prefer to play with, but at
the minimum it looks incredibly inter-
esting.
16. ... Bb5 17. Qd1
17. Rxb5?! axb5 18. Qxb5 is still inter-
esting, but an improved variation for
Black of what could have happened after
16. Ba3.
17. ... Qd7 18. Qd2
Black has an edge after18. Ne5 Bxe5
19. dxe5 Rfd8 (White has compensation
for the pawn after 19. ... Qf5 20. e4 Qxe5
21. Qd5) 20. Qxd7 Rxd7.
18. ... Nc4 19. Qb4
Whites position looks pretty ugly to
me: his queen is awkwardly placed, the
dark-squared bishop is undeveloped, the
black knight on c4 is a pain ...
19. ... Rc7 20. e4 Nb6 21. Bf4 Rc2?
The alternative line 21. ... Rc4 22. Qa5
Na4 23. Bf1 b6 24. Qd2 Rc3 leaves
chances for both sides.
22. Rbc1
Mesgen misses his chance to grab the
initiative with 22. Bf1! Na4 (22. ... Bxf1 23.
Rxf1 Nc8 24. Qxb7) 23. Bxb5 axb5 24.
Qxb5 Qxb5 25. Rxb5 b6 and now it is
White that has a clear advantage.
22. ... Rfc8 23. Rxc2 Rxc2 24. Qb3 Qc8 25. d5
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s defeat the top-seeded Chicago Blaze
I TH DESTINY
THE FINALS
Board 1 pitted GM Mesgen Amanov (Chicago) against GM Giorgi Kacheishvili (New York). This was a dangerous game for both teams,
as both stars were having poor playoff performances. Amanov had lost his game in the quarterfinals as white against IM-elect Con-
rad Holt (Dallas) and Kacheishvili had lost both of his playoff games against Jorge Sammour Hasbun (Boston) and GM Alex Stripunsky
(Manhattan). The losses by Giorgi were remarkable because he was the league most-valuable-player (MVP), scoring an incredible 6
1
2
out of 8 in the regular season. In this game Giorgi returned to MVP form, controlling the game from start to finish and scoring a huge
victory for New York. Lets take a look at this game:
By GM ROBERT HESS
U.S. Chess League
Qc3 26. Qxc3 Bxc3
If you compare the current position to
the position that could have occurred (in
the analysis) after 22. Bf1, the way the
game has turned is clear. White has
missed his one real opportunity so far to
prove an advantage, and now it is Black
who sits firmly in the drivers seat.
27. Rc1 Rxc1+ 28. Bxc1 Bd3 29. Nd2 f5?!
29. ... Na4 is much better and safer.
White has absolutely no active counterplay,
and will simply suffer for many moves.
30. exf5 gxf5 31. d6
Of course! Now White is no longer cramped
and maintains good drawing chances.
31. ... exd6 32. Bxb7 a5
After 32. ... a5
33. Nf1?
The start of a bad plan. Much better
was 33. Nf3 Kg7 (Black only has a small
edge with 33. ... Be4 34. Bxe4 fxe4 35.
Ng5 d5 36. f3 h6 37. Nh3) 34. Be3 Nc4 35.
Bd4+.
33. ... d5 34. Ne3 d4 35. Nd5 Na4!
Georgi understands he has let Mesgen
back into the game, but clearly remains
confident that he can still reel in the full
point. Giving White better drawing
chances was 35. ... Nxd5 36. Bxd5+ Kg7
37. f3 and though Black is definitely bet-
ter, the less pieces on the board help
White in his quest to draw.
36. f3 Bc4 37. a3?
After this incorrect move, Georgi plays
well to maintain control. However, White
still had fighting chances after 37. Ne7+
Kf8 (37. ... Kf7 38. Bd5+ Bxd5 39. Nxd5
Ke6 [39. ... d3 40. Nxc3 Nxc3 41. Kf2
Nxa2 42. Bd2 Nb4 43. Bxb4 axb4 44.
Ke3 Ke6 45. Kxd3 Kd5 46. g4 only draws]
40. Nf4+ when Black is slightly better) 38.
Nxf5 Bxa2 39. Bc6 Nc5 40. Bh6+ Kf7 41.
Bg7!.
37. ... Nc5 38. Nb6
38. Ne7+ Kf7 39. Bd5+ Bxd5 40. Nxd5
Ke6 41. Nf4+ Kd6 is a signficantly
improved version of the 37. Ne7+ varia-
tion for Black.
38. ... Bf7 39. Bc8 d3 40. Bxf5 d2 41. Bxd2
Bxd2
Georgi has now picked up a piece for
two pawns. The rest is pretty easy for a
player of his caliber.
42. Bc2 Bc1 43. a4 Bg5 44. Kf2 Be6 45. f4
Bd8 46. f5 Bxb6 47. fxe6 Nxe6+ 48. Ke1 Kg7
49. Kd2 Bg1 50. Ke1 Nd4 51. Be4 h6 52. Kf1
Be3
The white king is now boxed in. All
Black now has to do is grab the a-pawn
and run.
53. h4 Kf6 54. Bd3 Ke5 55. g4 Kf4 56. g5
hxg5 57. hxg5 Kxg5
After 57. ... Kxg5
You must always be careful when enter-
ing positions with bishop and rook pawn.
However, here the a1 queening square
matches the color of the black bishop.
58. Ke1 Kf4 59. Kd1 Ke5 60. Bg6 Kd6 61. Be8
Kc5 62. Bd7 Kb4 63. Be8 Bg5 64. Bd7 Nb3
65. Kc2 Nc5 66. Be8 Nxa4 67. Kb1 Nc3+ 68.
Kc2 a4 69. Bf7 a3 70. Bg8 a2 71. Bxa2 Nxa2
It has boiled down to knight plus bishop
versus king, as more or less expected.
Georgi, being the strong grandmaster he
is, knows this ending very well.
72. Kd3 Nc3 73. Kd4 Bf6+ 74. Kd3 Kb3 75.
Kd2 Kc4 76. Ke3 Be5 77. Kf3 Kd3 78. Kg4
Ke4 79. Kg5 Nb5 80. Kg4 Nd6 81. Kg5 Kf3 82.
Kh4 Ne4 83. Kh5 Kf4 84. Kg6 Nd6 85. Kh5
Bf6 86. Kg6 Ke5 87. Kh5 Kf5 88. Kh6 Ne8 89.
Kh5 Ng7+ 90. Kh6 Bc3 91. Kh7 Kf6 92. Kg8
Kg6 93. Kh8 Bd2 94. Kg8 Ne6 95. Kh8 Bh6
96. Kg8 Nf4 97. Kh8 Nh5, White resigned.
White resigned in view of mate in two.
Really a fine game by Georgiwith the
exception of 22. Bf1, he never was in any
trouble. That is certainly a feat, as Mes-
gen is a strong grandmaster and against
such a player it generally is difficult to play
with black. Well done by Georgi, leading
his team to the championship title!
On board two, IM Irina Krush (New York)
faced GM Dmitry Gurevich (Chicago). This
game was bound to be a huge struggle, as
Irina, the #2 ranked female player in the
U.S., probably felt a win was necessary if
the Knights were to be able to win the
title. But Dmitry is an extremely strong
grandmaster and held his own, pushing for
a win for most of the game before it ulti-
mately fizzled out into a draw. In retrospect,
Dmitry probably was kicking himself for
missing his best chances to score a much-
needed victory for the Blaze. Heres that
game:
Exchange Variation (D35)
IM Irina Krush (2476)
GM Dmitry Gurevich (2475)
US Chess League 2011 Playoff ICC INT
(3), 11.20.2011
1. d4 d5 2. c4 e6 3. Nc3 Be7 4. cxd5 exd5 5.
Bf4 Nf6 6. e3 0-0 7. Nf3 Bf5 8. Ne5 c5 9. g4
After 9. g4
A highly ambitious move. I dont partic-
ularly like it, but it does have its perks.
It gains space, gains a tempo, and puts
the bishop on the right diagonal. It does
severely weaken the white kingside, which
could be fatal.
9. ... cxd4 10. exd4 Be6
10. ... Be4!? 11. f3 Bg6 12. h4 h6 13.
Nxg6 fxg6 14. Qb3 Nc6 15. 0-0-0 looks
extremely interesting, and is a position
that should be looked into. Black has
ugly doubled g-pawns, but the open c-
file and semi-open f-file can be of great
use. Dynamic equality!?
11. Bg2 Qb6
Interesting, but why not just simply
11. ... Nc6 ? The game would undoubtedly
take an interesting turn! Heres a sample
line: 12. 0-0 Nxe5 13. dxe5 Nxg4 14. Nxd5
Bg5 15. Bg3 h5! 16. h3 h4 17. Bxh4 Bxh4
18. hxg4 Rc8 with a huge fight!
12. 0-0! Qxb2
Gurevich grabs the potentially poisonous
b2-pawn, but doesnt have a huge price to
pay. White can claim just a small advantage.
13. Qd3 Qa3 14. g5
Also possible is 14. Rab1 Nc6 15. Rxb7
Nxe5 16. dxe5 Ne4 17. Rb3 Nc5 18.
Qxh7+! Kxh7 19. Rxa3 Nd3 20. Ra4 Rfd8
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tR-+QmKL+R

with a slight edge for White.
14. ... Nfd7 15. Nxd5 Nxe5 16. Qxa3
The continuation 16. Nxe7+ Qxe7 17.
dxe5 Rd8 looks pleasant for Black in the
long run due to the weaknesses on e5 and
g5 and the bad bishop on f4 that comes
with those pawns.
16. ... Bxa3 17. Bxe5 Nc6 18. Nc7 Rad8 19. d5?
Most moves are dead equal, but this
one gives Black an advantage. The posi-
tion is equal after 19. Nxe6 fxe6 20. Bxc6
bxc6 21. Rab1 Bd6.
19. ... Bxd5 20. Bxg7 Bxg2 21. Bxf8 Bxf1 22.
Bxa3 Bh3
After 22. ... Bh3
After a series of captures, a position
with opposite color bishops arises. Black
is certainly better, as the white king is
boxed in, but bishops of opposite color
generally provide good drawing chances.
It is important to note Blacks queenside
majority, as a passed pawn is a plausible
dream for Black.
23. Bb2 Nd4
Certainly not a bad move, but much
better was 23. ... Rd2! 24. Bc3 Rd3 25.
Bf6 Nd4 26. f4 Rd2 27. Bxd4 Rxd4 28. Kf2
Rxf4+ 29. Kg3 Rc4.
24. f4 Ne2+
24. ... Bf5.
25. Kf2 Nxf4 26. Kg3 Ne6 27. Nxe6 Bxe6
Black has won a pawn, but with the
knights traded, a draw has become much
more likely.
28. a4 h6
A better try might be 28. ... Rd3+ 29.
Kf4 Rd2 30. Bf6 h6 (Tempting, but unnec-
essarily risky is: 30. ... Rxh2? 31. Rd1 h6
32. Rd8+ Kh7 33. Rh8+ Kg6 34. Rg8+
Kh7 [The position after 34. ... Kh5 35.
gxh6 Kxh6 36. Rh8+ Kg6 37. Rxh2 Kxf6
is one where only White can win.] 35.
Rg7+ Kh8 36. Rxf7+ Kg8 37. Rxb7) 31. h4
Rh2 32. Ke5 Rxh4 33. Rd1 hxg5 34. Rd8+
Kh7 35. Rh8+ Kg6 36. Rxh4 gxh4 37.
Bxh4.
29. gxh6 Kh7 30. Bg7 Rd3+ 31. Kf4 Rh3 32.
a5 a6
Now all White must do is keep the a5-
pawn protected, and a draw is secured.
33. Ke5 Rxh2 34. Kf6 Rf2+ 35. Ke7 Rf5 36.
Ra3 Rd5 37. Kf6 Rf5+ 38. Ke7 Rc5 39. Kf6
Rc6 40. Ke7 Rc7+ 41. Kf6 Rc5 42. Ra1 Bb3
43. Ra3 Rb5 44. Ra1 Be6 45. Ke7 Rf5 46. Ra3
Rf1 47. Ra4 Bd5 48. Rd4 Rf5 49. Ra4 Bc6 50.
Ra1 Rf3 51. Ra2 Re3+ 52. Kf6 Rf3+ 53. Ke7 f5
After 53. ... f5
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2011 USCL Champion New York Knights: GM Giorgi Kacheishvili, SM Matt Herman, IM Irina Krush, John Fernandez
P
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F
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U.S. Chess League
Gurevich realizes he cant make
progress, so he goes for his last chance ...
however, it is still an easy draw.
54. Kf6 f4 55. Re2 Re3 56. Rxe3 fxe3 57. Kg5 e2
58. Bc3 Be4 59. Bd2 Kg8 60. Kf6 Kf8 61. Bb4+
Ke8 62. Ke6 Kd8 63. Kd6 Bh7 64. Be1 Ke8 65.
Kc7 Be4 66. h7 Bxh7 67. Kxb7 Bd3 68. Kc6 Ke7
69. Kd5 Kf6 70. Kd4 Bb5 71. Kc3 Ke5 72. Kd2
Kd4 73. Bf2+ Kd5 74. Ke1, Draw agreed.
Unfortunately this game did not have
many fireworks. For the past 40+ moves,
pieces were being shifted around with-
out progress being made. Black had some
real winning chances around move 20, but
Irina did well to hold in the end. A big save
by her, as Chicago desperately needed to
get a full point from this game.
In preparation for the match, both
teams must have figured board three to be
a crapshoot. IM Angelo Young (Chicago) is
a well-known and respected player who is
always dangerous with the white pieces.
Matt Herman (New York) has made huge
strides in his game as of late, picking up
hundreds of rating points within a years
time. Both players are veterans of the
USCL, but this year they had much differ-
ent results. Young had a fantastic year
while Herman often struggled. In this
game, the only one that ultimately matters,
Herman crashed through his opponents
defenses despite being a pawn down and
in an inferior position. A very interesting
game from start to finish:
Reti Opening (A07)
IM Angelo Young (2350)
Matthew Herman (2396)
U.S. Chess League 2011 Playoff ICC INT
(3), 11.20.2011
This game was played on board three
between two very interesting players. IM
Angelo Young is an intriguing player who
is known for his offbeat openings. Matt
Herman is a tactician who has gained
tons of rating points in recent years. If any
game in this match was sure to be deci-
sive, it definitely was this one.
1. Nf3 Nf6 2. g3 d5 3. Bg2 c6 4. d3 Bg4
The most principled setup for Black
against the Reti Opening. Many strong
grandmasters play 4. ... Bg4, with quite
good results. The light-squared bishop
does not have much promise with the
c6-d5 pawn structure, so trading it for the
knight on f3 is typically a good option.
5. Nbd2 Nbd7 6. h3 Bh5 7. g4 Bg6 8. Nh4
White goes all in for that light-squared
bishop, but weakens the dark squares
on the kingside. This game follows
Peter Svidler-Vladimir Kramnik (1-0) from
the Russian Championship.
8. ... e5
The first deviation from the super-
grandmaster battle. Kramnik played 8. ...
e6 and got a pleasant position. 8. ... e5 is
not bad, either.
9. e3 Bd6 10. Qe2 0-0 11. b3
After 11. b3
11. ... a5!
Not an extraordinary move, but defi-
nitely a good plan. If White plays a2-a4 to
prevent Black from doing so, he compro-
mises his dark squares. If White allows ...
a5-a4, he gives up space and potentially
the open file.
12. Bb2 a4 13. 0-0 Re8 14. g5
White is trying to take advantage of
Blacks previous move, as it took away the
knights retreating square.
14. ... Nh5
This is the logical move, but Matt had a
nice combination: 14. ... a3 15. Bc1 Bh5?!
(seemingly trapping Blacks own knight!?)
16. Qe1 Rf8! 17. gxf6 (17. e4 Ne8) 17. ...
Qxf6 18. f4 exf4 19. Rb1 Rfe8 with tremen-
dous compensationBlack has two pawns,
much better coordination, and a strong
attack for a knight.
15. Qg4 a3 16. Bc3 b5
16. ... d4 17. exd4 exd4 18. Bxd4 Ne5
(18. ... Ra5 is also very interesting) 19.
Bxe5 Rxe5 20. Ndf3 Rc5 21. c4 Nf4. With
the initiative, Black looks better here
despite the sacrificed pawn.
17. Rad1 Qc7 18. Ba1 b4 19. Rc1 Nc5 20.
Nxg6 hxg6 21. Bf3
After 21. Bf3
The right planWhite must go after
the paralyzed knight on h5.
21. ... Qe7 22. Qg2 Kh7 23. Be2 Ne6 24. h4 d4?!
A good try to open up the position and
play for a win, but objectively not a very
good move. An improvement can be found
in 24. ... f5 where it looks as if Black
controls the majority of the board (and ...
Nf4 would then be threatened).
25. Bxh5 gxh5 26. Qxc6
Why not? Who says greed cant be good?
26. ... Kg8 27. Nc4
It is hard to complain about putting the
knight here, but better was 27. Qf3 Bc5
28. Rce1 g6 29. Nc4.
27. ... Rad8 28. Rce1 Bb8 29. Qe4?
Just not a good square for the queen,
allowing Black immense counterplay. Bet-
ter is 29. exd4 exd4 30. f4 Rc8 31. Qf3 Qc5
32. Re4.
29. ... Nc5 30. Qf3
Completely necessary was repeating
with 30. Qc6 Ne6 31. exd4.
30. ... e4 31. Qg2??
Losing immediately. White was forced
to capture: 31. dxe4 Qxe4 32. Qxe4 (Much
worse is 32. Kg2 Qxh4 33. Rh1 Qxg5+ 34.
Kf1 g6 35. Bxd4 Ne4) 32. ... Rxe4 33.
Kg2 with good drawing chances for White.
31. ... exd3 32. cxd3 Nxd3 33. Rd1 dxe3 34.
fxe3 Ba7
Stronger is 34. ... Qe4!
35. Bf6??
35. Bd4 Bxd4 36. Rxd3 Ba7 37. Rxd8
Rxd8 38. Qf3 and White is fine.
35. ... Bxe3+ 36. Qf2
Must be a mouseslip, but the game is
completely lost anyways. Here are a few
continuations: 36. Kh1 Nf2+ 37. Qxf2
Bxf2 38. Bxe7 Rxd1 39. Rxd1 Rxe7 game
over; Blacks kingside pawns will become
queens; 36. Kh2 Qc7+ 37. Qg3 Qxg3+
38. Kxg3 gxf6.
36. ... Bxf2+ 37. Rxf2 Qa7 and White forfeits
on time.
As anticipated, a back and forth battle
that eventually led to a point for Herman
and the Knights.
On the last board sat John Fernandez
(New York) and Gopal Menon (Chicago).
Fernandez technically was ineligible to com-
pete in this match, as he had not played in
the minimum number of regular season
matches required to allow you to participate
in the playoffs (two games), but an excep-
tion was cordially agreed upon due to many
conflicts with players competing in the
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World Youth and K-12 Nationals. Chicago
must have been happy to see Fernandez
playinghe was undoubtedly rusty hav-
ing not played in a single match all season
and being an inactive tournament player.
Whether or not Menon took this into
account when planning for the game, he
thrived. It was a smooth game from start to
finish, one that he should be proud of.
Philidor Defense (C41)
John Fernandez (2156)
Gopal S. Menon (2198)
U.S. Chess League 2011
Playoff ICC INT (3), 11.20.2011
1. e4 d6 2. d4 Nf6 3. Nc3 Nbd7 4. Nf3 e5 5.
Bc4 Be7 6. 0-0 0-0 7. Qe2?!
After 7. Qe2
An extremely odd move. Until this
incorrect move, White has maintained a
normal setup. 7. Re1 is the typical plan.
7. ... exd4 8. Nxd4 Ne5
If 7. Re1 had been played, this plan
would have been ineffective for Black.
Now the bishop on c4 has very few options
and Black becomes active very quickly.
Black has already equalized.
9. f3
Not the best. Better options included 9.
Re1 or 9. Bb3.
9. ... Nxc4 10. Qxc4 Re8 11. Rd1 h6 12. Bf4
Stronger was 12. e5! d5 (Losing is 12.
... dxe5 13. Nc6 and 12. ... Nd7 13. Ndb5
is unclear) 13. Qb3 Nd7 14. Qxd5 c6 15.
Qe4 Nxe5 16. Qxe5 Bd6 17. Nxc6 Qb6+
18. Be3 Bxe5 19. Bxb6 Bxc3 20. bxc3
bxc6 21. Bc5.
12. ... c6 13. b4??
I tend to not give moves multiple ques-
tion marks, but I really do not like this
move. It severely weakens the white queen-
side and gives Black unnecessary targets.
Black now has a significant edge. Better
was 13. Rd2.
13. ... a6!
After 13. ... a6
This move clearly indicates the direction
the game is heading. Black is playing
calm, normal moves whereas White is
being overly ambitious. 13. ... a6 is not a
spectacular move by any means, but I like
the quiet response.
14. a4 Bf8
14. ... d5!? 15. exd5 Nxd5 16. Nxd5
Qxd5 17. Qxd5 cxd5 18. c3 Bf6 and Black
has an annoying advantage that he can
press for the rest of the game. I like
Menons decision not to go for this end-
ing thoughit would give White plenty of
chances to draw, whereas in the game he
retains a nice edge.
15. Rab1 d5 16. exd5 cxd5 17. Qb3 Be6 18.
Be5
18. a5 Rc8 19. Na4 with interesting
play for both sides.
18. ... Nd7 19. Nxe6 fxe6 20. Bd4 Nb6 21. f4
Rc8 22. a5 Nc4 23. Rd3 Kh8 24. Re1 Qd6
After 24. ... Qd6
25. Rg3?
I admit Whites position has been look-
ing bad for quite a while, but there was
only one move that didnt immediately
lose a pawn: 25. f5! e5 (White is OK after
25. ... exf5 26. Rxe8 Rxe8 27. Nxd5) 26.
Bc5 Rxc5 27. bxc5 Qxc5+ 28. Kh1 d4
29. Ne4 Qxa5 30. c3 b5 31. f6 is extremely
unclear. Black has many pawns, but his
king might soon become fatally exposed.
25. ... Qxf4
Of course. Its a free pawn.
26. Ne2 Qc7 27. Qf3 e5
The rest is easy.
28. Ba1 Bxb4 29. Rd1 Bxa5 30. Rxd5 Qb6+
31. Qf2 Qb1+ 32. Qf1 Bb6+ 33. Bd4 Bxd4+
34. Nxd4 Qxf1+ 35. Kxf1 exd4 36. Rxd4
Ne3+ 37. Kg1 Nf5, White resigned.
A dominating performance by Black in
this game. White never got anything going
and Black seized the initiative early. Well
played by Menon in Chicagos only victory.
USCL Championship, Nov. 20, 2011,
FINAL SCORE: NEW YORK 2
1
2-
CHICAGO 1
1
2
With the end of these games came the
end of the 2011 USCL season. The New
York Knights have captured the title by
defeating the Chicago Blaze, 2
1
2-1
1
2.
I hope everyone enjoyed watching the
competition as much as I did. As a former
player in the league (lets go New York
Knights!!), I recognize the benefits of play-
ing a weekly game against strong
competition while forming friendships
and perhaps even study partners. I look
forward to the 2012 season and hope
that more cities across the United States
decide to enter the league and enjoy all
the great opportunities it has to offer. .
See much more about the U.S. Chess
League at uschessleague.com.
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Final 2011 Regular
Season Standings
Eastern Division W L
Philadelphia Inventors 8 2
New York Knights 6 4
Boston Blitz 6 4
Manhattan Applesauce 5
1
2 4
New England NorEasters 5
1
2 4
Baltimore Kingfishers 3 7
Carolina Cobras 3 7
New Jersey Knockouts 2
1
2 7
Western Division W L
Chicago Blaze 8
1
2 1
Los Angeles Vibe 6
1
2 3
San Francisco Mechanics 5
1
2 4
Dallas Destiny 5
1
2 4
Arizona Scorpions 4
1
2 5
Miami Sharks 4
1
2 5
Seattle Sluggers 3
1
2 6
St. Louis Arch Bishops 2 8
Quarterfinals:
Philadelphia Inventors versus
Manhattan Applesauce; New York
Knights versus Boston Blitz.
Semifinals:
Manhattan Applesauce versus
New York Knights
03-2012_USCFSales_inside2_Layout 1 2/3/2012 3:10 PM Page 1
Chess Magnet new:chess life 12/3/2008 5:28 PM Page 1
Back to Basics
While it is much easier to attack than
to defend, defensive techniques can be
learned! The rewards will soon followas
the game below demonstrates.
Writes the winner of this months
award, Nadew Haile: In this game, my
opponent was an uncompromising
attacker who had taken the state speed
championship. (Levs further comments
will be in italics.)
Closed Ruy Lopez,
Marshall Attack (C89)
Nadew Haile (1784)
Vanel Sanchez (2061)
WVCC Quick (1), 07.29.2006
1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 Nc6 3. Bb5 a6 4. Ba4 b5 5.
Bb3
After 5. Bb3
5. ... Nf6
Black has chosen a dubious move order
(Normal order is 4. ... Nf6 5. 0-0 Be7 6. Re1
b5 etc.). Now, both 6. Ng5 and 6. d4 exd4
7. e5 favor Whitecompare with the Two
Knights Defense position after 1. e4 e5 2.
Nf3 Nc6 3. Bc4 Nf6.
6. 0-0 Be7
Avoids the open system of the Ruy
Lopez.
7. Re1 0-0 8. c3 d5
After 8. ... d5
The Marshall, for the uncompromis-
ing! Black sacrifices a pawn for attacking
chances.
A hundred years later, this develop-
ment of Frank Marshalls still thriveseven
on the world championship level.
9. exd5 Nxd5 10. Nxe5 Nxe5 11. Rxe5
After 11. Rxe5
11. ... Nf6
I was expecting 11. ... c6, defending
the knight and keeping the post on d5.
I recalled that 11. ... Nf6 is the original
move Marshall played against [Jos Ral]
Capablanca.
12. d4
12. Re1 Bd6 13. h3 stopping ... Ng4. 12.
Re1 would have been wiser.
In fact, this line doesnt stop 13. ... Ng4.
After 13. ... Ng4 14. Qf3 Qh4 (both are
best moves) 15. d4!, the game transfers
into the main line, 12. d4, according to
Encyclopedia of Chess Openings (ECO).
12. ... Bd6 13. Re1 Ng4
After 13. ... Ng4
I thought about 14. h3, but I remem-
ber a certain Tal game in which he
sacrificed the knight on f2. 14. h3 Nxf2
15. Kxf2 Qh4+ 16. Kf1 Bxh3 17. gxh3
Qxh3+ with a dangerous attack and per-
petual check available to Black.
True, but after 14. h3 Nxf2 15. Qf3! Qh4
16. Bd2! White is better. (In Capablanca-
Marshall, 1918, White got an edge after 16.
Re2 Bg4but 16. ... Ng4! 17. Re8 Nf6
equalizes here).
14. g3 Nxh2 15. Kxh2
In ECO-2, circa 1981, Tal and Krogius
give ? to 14. g3 and, after 14. ... Nxh2,
dont even mention 15. Kxh2, concentrat-
ing instead on 15. Bd5 Bxg3!, with a big
edge for Black. But the consequences of the
natural 15. Kxh2 arent so easy to foresee,
even for a grandmaster!
15. ... Qh4+ 16. Kg1 Bxg3 17. Qf3
This move threatens the g3 bishop,
and threatens Qxf7+ followed by Re8
mate. I preferred this to 17. fxg3 Qxg3+,
since I was still playing to win!
17. Qf3 is Whites best defense (the
tricky 17. Bxf7+ is refuted by the calm
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Resisting the Kitchen Sink
Sometimes, the victor is not the one who delivers a relentless attack but the
opponent who resists coolly and finds surprising resources.
By GM Lev Alburt
CL_03-2012_alburt_JP_r8_chess life 2/10/2012 10:32 AM Page 46
After 17. Qf3
17. ... Kh8). And, in Nadews line, Black
wins: 17. fxg3 Qxg3+ 18. Kh1 Bg4, or 18.
Kf1 Bh3+.
17. ... Qh2+
I had considered 17. Bh2+ 18. Kg2
Bg4 19. Qd3.
Analysis after 19. Qd3
19. ... c5 20. Bc2 g6 (stopping Qxh7+),
21. Rh1 Bf5 22. Rxh2 Qxh2+ 23. Kxh2
Bxd3 24. Bxd3. While White has a slight
advantage because of the bishop pair and
the passed d-pawn, it is probably not
winning.
Of course White is winning in this line
he has three (!) pieces for a rook and pawn.
But lets go back to the analysis diagram.
Instead of 19. ... c5, Black should play 19.
... Rae8, and the attack prevails, as 20.
Rh1 is now met by 20. ... Re2.
18. Kf1
After 18. Kf1
18. ... Bh3+ 19. Ke2
After 19. Ke2
19. ... Bxf2?!
Optimistic.
Id consider here 19. ... Rae8+ 20. Kd1
(or 20. Be3 Bg4) 20. ... Rxe1+ 21. Kxe1
Qxf2+! 22. Qxf2 Re8+ and 23. ... Bxf2.
Black is, in this line, down a piece for two
pawnsbut arent those kingside pawns
dangerous?
20. Qxf2 Rae8+
Black goes too far in his attacking zeal.
Instead, 20. ... Bg4+ led to a forced draw
by repetition.
21. Be3 Rxe3+ 22. Kxe3 Re8+
Appears to succeed in separating king
and queen, so that the queen is en prise.
After 22. ... Re8+
23. Kd3!
The unexpected resource. White threat-
ens a back-rank mate, Blacks queen is
hanging, and Qxf7+ is still threatened. 23.
Kf3 also works, but 23. Kd3 is aestheti-
cally more pleasing.
23. ... Bf5+
The only way to save the queen.
24. Qxf5 Qg3+ 25. Kc2 Qxe1 26. Bxf7+,
Black resigned.
White mates after 26. Kf8 27. Be6+
Ke7 28. Qf7+ K-any 29. Qd7 mate.
Also mating is 26. Kh8 27. Nd2! Qe7
(27. Qxa1 28. Bxe8 h6 29. Bg6 Qxa2
30. Nb3!) 28. Qxh7+! Kxh7 29. Rh1+ (see
analysis diagram).
(see second diagram top of next column)
After 26. Bxf7+
Analysis after 29. Rh1+
The notion that chess is 99% tactics cer-
tainly applied to this game. And tactics
can be successfully used in defense as
well, as Whites beautiful move 23. Kd3!
illustrates. .
View this issue using our online viewer at
uschess.org. Click on Chess Life Magazine
then Chess Life PDF Viewer.
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tRNvL-tR-+-
Send in your games!
If you are unrated or were rated
1799 or be low on your Chess Life
(CL) label, then GM Lev Alburt invites
you to send your most instructive
game with notes to:
Back to Basics, c/o Chess Life
PO Box 3967 Crossville, TN
38557-3967
Or e-mail your material to
backtobasics@uschess.org
GM Alburt will select the most
instructive game and CL will award
an autographed copy of Levs newest
book, Chess Training Pocket Book II
(by Lev Alburt and Al Lawrence) to
the person submitting the most in -
structive game and annotations.
Do not send games with only a
few notes, as they are of little instruc-
tive value and cant be used. Writing
skills are a plus, but instructiveness
is a must! Make sure your game (or
part of it) and your notes will be of
interest to other readers.
CL_03-2012_alburt_JP_r8_chess life 2/10/2012 10:32 AM Page 47
Endgame Lab
Database Progress, Part 2
In the December 2011 Chess Life, we examined the seven-piece database
progress; this month, the pawns step front and center.
By GM Pal Benko
This month I examine some of the latest
work of the two outstanding computer-
chess experts Mark Bourzutschky and
Yakov Konoval. In the first part (December
2011) the pieces took the main roles, so
now let us look at pawn endings.
Ridha Belkadi Ludek Pachman
Leipzig (ol), 1960
Black to play
55. ... Kd4 56. Kg4 Kc3? 57. Kf4 Kb2??
White resigned, but curiously, in an
equal position! 58. Ke5 Kxa2 59. Kd5 a4
60. Kxc5 a3 61. Kd6! Kb1 62. c5 a2 63.
c6 a1=Q 64. c7. Black wins because the
c2-pawn deprives White of the stalemate-
bishop-pawn device.
The only winning move was 56. ... Kxc4!
Laszlo Barczay Sammy Reshevsky
Skopje, 1970
White to play
52. f5 Kc7 53. Ke3 a5??
Better are 53. ... g3 and 53. ... Kd7
with a fighting chance in the resulting
endgame.
54. bxa5??
After 54. f6!! White promotes the a-
pawn with check.
54. ... b4 55. f6 b3 56. f7 b2 57. f8=Q b1=Q,
Draw.
Lev Psakhis Vladimir Savon
Moscow (ch), 1981
Black to play
54. ... f6 55. Kf3 Kd7 56. Ke3 Ke7 57. Kd3
Kd7 58. Kc4
Now Black resigned in a drawn position!
After 58. ... Kd6 (... Kd8, ... Ke8) or 58. ...
Ke6 59. Kc5 Kd7! 60. Kd5 Ke7 the posi-
tion is level.
White can not play 61. Kc6? to outflank
Black because of 62. ... f5! allowing Black
to draw.
Jiri Lechtynsky Levente Vajda
Budapest, 2002
56. h5 Kxc4??
This obvious move leads to a draw.
After 56. ... Ka2 (or 56. ... Ka3) 57. h6 b3
58. h7 b2 59. h8=Q b1=Q Black could
White to play
have won in the queen ending.
57. h6 b3 58. h7 b2 59. h8=Q b1=Q 60. Qg8+
Kc3 61. Qg7+ Kb3 62. Qb7+ Kc2 63. Qh7+
Kc1 64. Qh6+ Kb2 65. Qg7+ Kc1 66. Qh6+
Kd1 67. Qh1+ Kc2 68. Qh7+ Kb2, Draw.
Finally, we give some endgame stud-
ies with cooks.
Ernest Pogosyants, 1964
White to play and win?
1. f5 exf5 2. g5 f4 3. g6 f3 4. g7 f2 5. g8=Q
f1=Q 6. Qa8+ Kf5
If 6. ... Kd3, 7. Qa6+.
7. Qf8+ wins.
But 2. ... Kd3! 3. g6 Kxd2 4. g7 e4 5. g8=Q
d3 is, surprisingly, a draw.
It is easy to correct this by moving the
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CL_03-2012_benko_JP_r8_chess life 2/10/2012 3:59 PM Page 48
c7 king to c6. The change is in this case
6. Qd5+.
Alexey Troitzky, 1923
1. a5
Black can draw after 1. c5? Ke5 2. Kg3
Kd5 3. Kh4 Kxc5 4. Kxh5 Kb4 5. Kxg4
Kxa4 6. f4 b5 7. f5 b4 8. f6 b3 9. f7 b2 10.
f8=Q b1=Q 11. Qa8+ Kb3.
1. ... Ke5
Bad is 1. ... h4 2. c5 Ke5 3. c6 Kd6 4.
cxb7 Kc7 5. a6 h3+ 6. Kg3 h5 7. f4.
2. Kg3 Kd4 3. Kh4 Kxc4 4. Kxh5 Kb5 5. Kxg4
Kxa5 6. f4 b5
No better is 6. ... Kb5 7. f5 Kc6 8. Kh5
Kd7 9. Kg6 Ke8 10. Kg7.
7. f5 b4 8. f6 b3 9. f7 b2 10. f8=Q b1=Q 11.
Qa8+
This wins, but Black can defend by
attacking the threat (the f2-pawn): 4. ...
Kd5!!= 5. Kxh6 Ke4 draws.
Hauke Reddmann, 1976
1. f5! exf5 2. d5 f4 3. d6 f3 4. d7 fxe2
Or 4. ... f2 5. d8=Q f1=Q 6. Qd3 mate.
5. d8=Q e1=Q 6. Qxa5+
But: 3. ... Kd2 4. d7 Kxe2 5. d8=Q f3 is
a draw.
For the last two studies see my versions
in the Bafflers.
Bob Baker from California sent in valu-
able notes to the following study:
H. Adamson, 1922
White to play and win
1. Ke6! c5 2. h4 c4 3. Kd5! e6+ 4. Kc5! e5 5.
h5! e4 6. Kd4! e3 7. Kxe3! Kxb2 8. h6
And White wins. But there is more to
this study. There is a claim on
chesscafe.com that Black draws after 1.
Kc6 Kc4 but this is wrong because after
2. h4 e5 3. h5 e4 4. h6 e3 5. h7 e2 6.
h8=Q e1=Q 7. Qg8+ wins.
If 1. Kc6? The solution is: 1. ... e5! 2.
Kd5 Kxb2! 3. h4 Kb3! 4. h5 c6+ 5. Kc5 e4
6. Kd4 c5+!, Draw.
H. Adamson, 1924
1. h4 Kd2 2. Kd5 Kc2 3. b4 Kb3 4. Kc5 Kc3 5.
b5 Kb3 6. Kc6 Kc4 7. Kxc7 Kxb5 8. h5 wins.
1. b4? Kd2 2. Kd4 g5 and the Encyclo-
pedia stops here with the sign = .
But 3. b5! g4 4. Ke4 Kc3 5. Kf4 Kb4 6.
Kxg4 Kxb5 7. h4 c5 8. h5 c4 9. Kf3! Kb4
10. h6 c3 11. Ke2 Kb3 12. h7 c2 13. Kd2!
wins. Here is my example.
Pal Benko
1. Ke5! Ke2(!) 2. c4! c5
Winning is 2. ... Kd3 3. c5 Kc4 4. Kd6
Kb5 5. g3!.
3. Kd5 g5 4. Kxc5 g4 5. Kd4 Kf2 6. c5 Kxg2
7. c6 g3 8. c7 Kh2 9. c8=Q wins.
On the other side it would be a theoret-
ical draw with the c-pawn against the
queen. .
-+-+-+-+
+p+-+-+-
-+-+-+-zp
+-+-+k+p
P+P+-+p+
+-+-+-+-
-+-+-zPK+
+-+-+-+-
-+-+-+-+
+-+-+-+-
-+-+p+-+
zp-+-+-+-
-+-zP-zP-+
mK-mk-zp-+-
-+-+P+-+
+-+-+-+-
-+-+-+-+
+-zpKzp-+-
-+-+-+-+
+-+-+-+-
-+-+-+-+
+k+-+-+-
-zP-+-+-zP
+-+-+-+-
-+-+-+-+
+-zp-+-zp-
-+-+-+-+
+-+-+-+-
-+-+K+-+
+-+-+-+-
-zP-+-+-zP
+-+-mk-+-
-+-+-+-+
+-+-+-+-
-+p+-+p+
+-+-+-+-
-+-+K+-+
+-+-+-+-
-+P+-+P+
+-+-mk-+-
Benkos Bafflers
Most of the time these studies
resemble positions that could actu-
ally occur over the board. You must
simply reach a theoretically won or
drawn position for White.
Solutions can be found on page
71.
Please e-mail submissions for
Benkos Bafflers to:
pbenko@uschess.org
Problem I
P. Benko Version
Problem II
P. Benko Version
-+-+-+-+
+-+-+-+-
-+-+-zp-+
+-+-+-+-
-+-+P+P+
+K+k+p+-
-+-+-zP-+
+-+-+-+-
-+-+-+-+
+p+-+-+-
-+-+-+-+
+-+-+-zp-
P+P+-mkp+
+-+-+-+-
-+-+-zP-+
+-+-+-mK-
CL_03-2012_benko_JP_r8_chess life 2/10/2012 4:47 PM Page 49
2011 TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX FINAL RESULTS
Trophies Plus awards $12,500 in cash prizes in the 2011 Grand Prix!
2011 TROPHIES PLUS GRAND PRIX STANDINGS
The following point totals reflect all rated event information as of January 31 for the 2011 Trophies Plus Grand Prix. These are the
official 2011 results.
GM SERGEY KUDRIN dominated the 2011 Trophies Plus
Grand Prix (GP) race. This is his first GP title.
OVERALL STANDINGS
NAME STATE PTS.
1 GM Sergey Kudrin CT 372.77
2 GM Timur Gareyev TX 290.56
3 GM Mikheil Kekelidze NY 286.57
4 GM Tamaz Gelashvili NY 271.60
5 GM Alexander Shabalov PA 225.20
6 GM Alexander Ivanov MA 216.08
7 GM Alejandro Ramirez TX 174.83
8 GM Melikset Khachiyan CA 173.28
9 GM Aleksandr Lenderman NY 169.67
10 IM Enrico Sevillano CA 147.22
11 GM Varuzhan Akobian CA 131.33
12 GM Mesgen Amanov IL 120.76
13 IM Jay Richard Bonin NY 115.59
14 IM Justin Sarkar NY 113.60
15 IM Roman Yankovsky CA 112.80
Trophies Plus:
ITS NOT JUST A TROPHY.
ITS THE BEGINNING OF A LIFETIME OF ACHIEVEMENT.
Proud sponsor of USCF National Scholastic
tournament awards since 1999.
Proud sponsor of the USCF 2007-2011 All-America Team.
315 W. 1st St., Templeton, Iowa 51463 | 800.397.9993 | www.trophiesplus.com
P
H
O
T
O

C
O
U
R
T
E
S
Y

O
F

M
O
N
R
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I
.
C
O
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CATEGORIES AND PRIZES
$
12,500
IN CASH PRIZES!
FIRST PRIZE: $5,000!
2nd: $2,500 | 3rd: $1,000
4th: $900 | 5th: $800
6th: $700 | 7th: $600
8th: $500 | 9th: $300
10th: $200
CHAMPION: GM SERGEY KUDRIN
CL_03-2012_gp_AKF_r7.qxp_chess life 2/10/12 9:32 AM Page 48
ChessMagnetSchool.com is the sponsor of the 2011 Junior Grand Prix (JGP). These are the official standings for events received and processed by February 1, 2012. Top prize includes
$1,000 cash stipend to attend, with free entry, the 2011 U.S. Open. Additional prizes will be announced in future issues. Prizes will be awarded to the top 50 finishers, and the top fin-
isher in each state will be awarded a prize. Chess Magnet School provides computer-based online chess training for both adults and children, including those who study independently
and those who study under the guidance of a coach or teacher, as well as support for chess coaches and others who teach chess. Chess Magnet School has been a partner with USCF
on a number of projects and activities since 2006, and has provided the free program that teaches the rules of chess to newcomers in the New to Chess section of USCFs website.
USCF members are invited to learn more about Chess Magnet School at www.ChessMagnetSchool.com.
2011 CHESSMAGNETSCHOOL.COM JUNIOR GRAND PRIX FINAL STANDINGS
Name State Pts.
KORBA, NICKY CA-S 11386
SHUBEN, MATTHEW CA-S 10475
MIZUSHIMA, DEREK MD 8556
ROACH, ANDREW UT 8512
ZHONG, HOWARD OK 8437
BANERJEE, ABHIMANYU FL 7848
KUMAR, ARAVIND NJ 7756
SOHAL, TANRAJ S 7152
CAO, ALVIN VA 6909
MOTURI, SOUREESH PA 6650
REEDER, CHARLIE PARKER NY 6649
SETIADIKURNIA, SLOAN WA 6524
RICHMAN, JONATHAN VA 6373
LIANG, ADREAM WI 6345
ATTANAGODA, ISURU ADEEPA VA 6261
SCHEIN, AARON O NY 6207
WIENER, ALEXANDRA CT 6130
KADAVERU, AJIT VA 6128
YAN, KEVIN NY 6086
SCHNEIDER, THOMAS G WI 6084
CHEN, JASMINE NY 6067
KOENIG, JAKE MD 5907
ZHAO, CHENYI CA-N 5823
GORTI, AKSHITA VA 5698
QAZI, RAFEH R IL 5684
LUO, MAGGIE VA 5662
CAO, JONATHAN VA 5624
QI, HENRY NY 5577
MOON, KYLE NY 5477
GAN, ERIC VA 5451
PETERSON, DANTE CA-S 5444
MOORTHY, SRINIVAS RAMANUJA MD 5413
ESWARAN, ASHRITHA CA-N 5411
LEVKOV, DANIEL NY 5385
TURE, TANNER NY 5332
Name State Pts.
RIVES, HAL NY 5142
PETERSON, GIA CA-S 5132
VISWANADHA, KESAV CA-N 5072
SANT, AMIT CA-N 4976
YEN, MICHAEL J NJ 4967
MURTHY, AADITYA TX 4932
JIN, EDWIN NY 4929
NGUYEN, PHILIP PA 4922
GHATTI, SANJAY GA 4918
CHIANG, SARAH TX 4912
RAJASEKARAN, VIKAS VA 4895
SUN, ABE IL 4873
ONEIL, BRANDON JAMES MI 4853
SRIVASTAVA, VIKRAM OH 4834
LASSNER, JARED FL 4805
Name and State Winners State Pts.
CHEN, STEVE MENGXI AL 3405
BROCK, DAMON AR 2328
ENG, RACHAEL AZ 4277
BEILIN, ALLAN CA-N 4528
HAIRAPETYAN, ARMAN CA-S 4698
HONEYCUTT, SAMUEL RHEA CO 3980
TANENBAUM, ZACHARY CHEN CT 3731
HAUGE, DAVID RICHEY DC 2533
KAMARA, ABUBAKARR DE 2844
RIEGELHAUPT, CORY FL 4148
AVIRNENI, SAITHANUSRI GA 3120
MAU, STEPHEN LI JIAN HI 2043
LEE, GORDON S ARAI IA 2953
HARMON-VELLOTTI, LUKE ID 4147
KOGEN, JONATHAN S IL 3909
MC DONALD, ALEX K IN 3066
JIANG, BRYAN LIU KS 4289
HAMILTON, ALEX KY 2152
Name and State Winners State Pts.
WIETFELDT, AUGUST LA 3527
GROSSACK, ADAM MA 4060
OFFERTALER, BENJAMIN MD 4594
REYNOLDS, AVERY ME 2100
KULKARNI, SOUMYA MI 4734
TADESSE, MICHAEL MN 3567
HUA, MARGARET M MO 4552
HUANG, DAVID MS 1568
LEE, CONRAD MT 1400
MADIRAJU, SURAJ NC 3198
KOPPINGER, MATTHEW ND 876
LI, BRANDON NE 776
WELLING, POOJA NH 3777
ZACK, DANIEL NJ 4771
ROJAS-GRAINGER, ORION NM 3135
BAROZZI, MICHELANGELO NV 3177
LIU, BINGJIE NY 4174
XIANG, JOHN OH 4413
YIN, ANNIE OK 4114
TALYANSKY, SETH DAVID OR 3545
BUDEJEN-JEREZ, ALEJANDRO PA 4560
FINNEY, STUART S RI 2039
DIAS, NEHA SC 4068
RYSAVY, LUKE T SD 244
CANEZEL, JENJOE CABANGAN TERR 2902
PAO, LUCAS TN 3351
NGUYEN, KHOA MINH TX 3834
MASON, SAMUEL REED UT 3447
NGUYEN, TRUNG VA 4775
RO, DAVID VT 1652
FARNY, ANDREAS PAUL WA 4686
ULRICH, RACHEL J WI 4438
PATEL, ADVAIT WV 2013
ANDREWS, CHRIS R WY 350
TO ENTER: 800-903-USCF(8723) OR FAX 931-787-1200 OR ONLINE AT WWW.USCHESS.ORG
Name_________________________________________ USCF ID#_______________________________________
Address _______________________________________ City___________________ State ___ ZIP ____________
Phone __________________________ E-mail____________________________________ Est. Rating __________
Credit card # (VISA, MC, Disc., AMEX) _________________________________________ Exp. date ________________
If using VISA, need V-code ________________ qCheck here if you do not wish to have an opponent who is incarcerated.
*Note: This may slow down your assignment.
MAKE CHECKS PAYABLE TO U.S. CHESS AND MAIL TO: JOAN DUBOIS, USCF, PO BOX 3967, CROSSVILLE, TN 38557
USCFs 65
th
ANNUAL
2012 Open Correspondence Chess Golden Knights Championship
$1,000 FIRST PRIZE
(plus title of USCFs Golden Knights Champion and plaque)
2nd place $600 3rd place $400 4th place $300 5th place $200
6th thru 10th place $100 each ENTRY FEE: $25
These USCF Correspondence Chess events are rated and open to all USCF members who reside on the North American continent,
islands, or Hawaii, as well as those USCF members with an APO or FPO address. USCF members who reside outside of the North
Am erican continent are welcome to participate in e-mail events. Your USCF membership must remain current for the duration of
the event, and entry fees must be paid in U.S. dollars. Those new to USCF Corre spond ence Chess, please estimate your strength:
Class A: 1800-1999 (very strong); Class B: 1600-1799 (strong); Class C: 1400-1599 (intermediate); Class D: 1399 and below
(beginner level). Note: Prize fund based on 300 entries and may be decreased proportionately per number of entries assigned.
USCFs 9
th
ANNUAL
2012 E-mail Correspondence Chess Electronic Knights Championship
(Seven-player sections, one game with each of six opponents.)
$700 FIRST PRIZE
(plus title of USCFs Electronic Knights Champion and plaque)
2nd place $400 3rd place $300 4th thru 10th place $100 each ENTRY FEE: $25
These USCF Correspondence Chess events are rated and open to all USCF members with e-mail access. Your USCF
membership must remain current for the duration of the event, and entry fees must be paid in U.S. dollars. Maximum
number of tournament entries allowed for the year for each player is ten. Note: Prize fund based on 200 entries
and may be decreased proportionately per number of entries assigned.
CORRESPONDENCE CHESS MATCHES (TWO PLAYERS)
Two or six-game options. ENTRY FEE: $5.
Win A Correspondence Chess Trophy
Four-player, double round-robin with class-level pairings.
1st-place winner re ceives a trophy.
ENTRY FEE: $10.
Victor Palciauskas Prize Tournaments
Seven-player class-level pairings, one game with each
of six opponents.
1st-place winner receives $130 cash prize and a certificate
signed by Victor Palciauskas.
ENTRY FEE: $25.
John W. Collins Memorial Class Tournaments
Four-player, double round-robin with class-level pairings
(unrateds welcome).
1st-place winner receives a John W. Collins certificate.
ENTRY FEE: $7.
E-MAIL RATED EVENTS (NEED E-MAIL ACCESS):
Lightning Match
Two players with two or six-game option. ENTRY FEE: $5.
Swift Quads
Four-player, double round-robin format.
1st-place prize merchandise credit of $30.
ENTRY FEE: $10.
Walter Muir E-Quads (webserver chess)
Four-player, double round-robin e-mail format tournament
with class-level pairings.
1st-place receives a certificate.
ENTRY FEE: $7.
Please circle event(s) selected.
NOTE: Except for Lightning Matches, Swift Quads, Walter
Muir E-Quads & Electronic Knights, players will use post
office mail, unless opponents agree to use e-mail.
CHECK OUT USCFS CORRESPONDENCE CHESS RATED EVENTS!
CL_03-2012_jgp_JP_r4_chess life 2/8/2012 4:14 PM Page 51
Tournament Life
SEE TLA IN THIS ISSUE FOR DETAILS
2012 U.S. Junior Chess Congress March 3-4 Burlingame, California
2012 National High School (K-12) Championship April 13-15 Minneapolis, Minnesota
2012 All-Girls National Championships April 20-22 Chicago, Illinois
2012 National Junior High (K-9) Championship April 27-29 San Diego, California
2012 National Elementary (K-6) Championship May 11-13 Nashville, Tennessee
68th Annual (2012) U.S. Amateur East Championship May 26-28 or 27-28 Somerset,
New Jersey
2012 U.S. Amateur South Championship June 9-10 Memphis, Tennessee
2012 U.S. Game/10 Championship June 14 Las Vegas, Nevada
2012 National Open June 15-17 or 16-17 Las Vegas, Nevada
FUTURE EVENTS (Watch for details)
2012 U.S. Amateur West Championship May 26-28 Tucson, Arizona
2012 U.S. Senior Open Championship July 9-14 Houston, Texas
2012 U.S. Junior Open Championship July 13-15 Houston, Texas
2012 U. S. Open Aug. 4-12 Vancouver, Washington
2012 U. S. Game/60 Oct. 27 Pleasanton, California
2012 U. S. Action Game/30 Oct. 28 Pleasanton, California
2012 National Scholastic (K-12) Nov. 30-December 2 Orlando, Florida
2013 SuperNationals V April 5-7 Nashville, Tennessee
2013 National Scholastic (K-12) December 13-15 Lake Buena Vista, Florida
2014 National High School (K-12) Championship April 4-6 San Diego, California
2014 National Elementary (K-6) Championship May 9-11 Dallas, Texas
2014 National Scholastic (K-12) December 12-14 Orlando, Florida
2015 National Elementary (K-6) Championship May 8-10 Nashville, Tennessee
2015 National Scholastic (K-12) December 5-7 Orlando, Florida
Bids
Note: Organizers previously awarded
options for USCF National Events must
still submit proposals (including sample
budgets) for their events.
NOW PAST DEADLINE OF
JULY 1, 2011:
2012 U.S. Amateur
(North)
2012 U.S. Class Championship
2012 U.S. Masters Championship
DEADLINE JULY 1, 2012:
2013 U.S. Amateur Team Championship
(North, South, West)
2013 U.S. Amateur
(East, North, South, West)
2013 U.S. Senior Open
2013 National Open
2013 U.S. Game 10 Championship
2013 U.S. Game/15 Championship
2013 U.S. Game 60 Championship
2013 U.S. Action G/30 Championship
DEADLINE JULY 1, 2013:
2014 U.S. Senior Open
OVERDUE BIDS
Please contact the National Office if
you are interested in bidding for a
National Event. The USCF recom-
mends that bids be submitted ac-
cording to the following schedule.
However, bids may be considered
prior to these dates. *USCF reserves
the right to decline all bids and
organize the event itself.
Tournament Life
USCF National Events
Note: Tournament memberships not valid for National events
The TLA pages Information for Organizers, TDs, and Affiliates and Information for Players can now be found online at main.uschess.org/ go/tlainfo.
Rating supplements will be updated EACH MONTH on the USCF website, and each monthly rating supplement will be used for all tournaments beginning
in that month, unless otherwise announced in Chess Life. The USCF website at www.uschess.org also frequently lists unofficial ratings.The purpose of unof-
ficial ratings is to inform you of your progress; however, most tournaments do not use them for pairing or prize purposes. If you would otherwise be unrated,
organizers may use your unofficial rating at their discretion, even without advance publicity of such a policy.
All tournaments are non-smoking with no comput-
ers allowed unless otherwise advertised by S
and/or C (see below for explanations).
QC: Quick Chess events .
$$Gtd: Guaranteed prizes.
$$b/x: Based-on prizes, x = number of entries
needed to pay full prize fund. At least 50% of the
advertised prize fund of $501 or more must be
awarded.
Bye: Indicates which rounds players who find it
inconvenient to play may take -point byes
instead. For example, Bye 1-3 means -point
byes are available in Rounds 1 through 3.
CC: Chess club.
EF: Entry fee.
Ent: Where to mail entries.
FIDE: Results submitted to FIDE for possible
rating.
G/: Game in. For instance, G/75 means each
side has 75 minutes for the entire game.
GPP: Grand Prix Points available.
HR: Hotel rates. For example, 60-65-70-75 means
$60 single, $65 twin, $70/3 in room, $75/4 in
room.
JGP: Junior Grand Prix.
Memb. reqd: Membership required; cost fol-
lows. Usually refers to state affiliate.
Open: A section open to all. Often has very
strong players, but some eligible for lower sec-
tions can play for the learning experience.
Quad: 4-player round robin sections; similar
strength players.
RBO: Rated Beginners Open.
Rds: Rounds; scheduled game times follow. For
example, 11-5, 9-3 means games begin 11 a.m. &
5 p.m. on the first day, 9 a.m. & 3 p.m. on the sec-
ond day.
Reg: Registration at site.
RR: Round robin (preceded by number of rounds).
SD/: Sudden-death time control (time for rest of
game follows). For example, 30/90, SD/1 means
each player must make 30 moves in 90 minutes,
then complete the rest of the game in an hour.
SS: Swiss-System pairings (preceded by number
of rounds).
T/Dx: Time delay, x = number of seconds.
Unr: Unrated.
W: Site is accessible to wheelchairs.
WEB: Tournaments that will use a players on-line
rating.
Tournament Life Abbreviations & Terms
CL_03-2012_TLA_JP_r8_chess life 2/1/2012 12:46 PM Page 52
See previous issue for TLAs appearing March 1-14
The Tournament Announcements on the following pages are provided
for the convenience of USCF members and for informational pur-
poses only. Unless expressly indicated otherwise, neither the U.S.
Chess Federation nor Chess Life warrants the accuracy of anything
contained in these Tournament Announcements. Those interested
in additional information about or having questions concerning any
of these tournaments are directed to contact the organizer listed.
Chess Life will exercise all due diligence in providing accurate
typesetting of non-camera-ready copy but assumes no responsibil-
ity for errors made in such work.
SUBMISSIONS: If possible e-mail your tla to: tla@uschess.org
(Joan DuBois). For tla deadline schedule, formatting help and Grand
Prix information see September 2011 Chess Life pg. 49 and 69 or
check http://main. uschess.org/ go/tlainfo. Payment can be done
online through the TD/Affiliate area or sent to: U.S. Chess, TLA Dept.,
PO Box 3967, Crossville, TN 38557.
Nationals
Mar. 3-4, California, Northern
2012 U.S. Junior Chess Congress
(Blitz on Mar. 2) San Francisco Airport Hyatt Regency, 1333 Bayshore
Highway, Burlingame, CA 94010. Experience Spring in San Francisco! Hotel
rate $99 only. 8 sections based on age: 6 & under, 8 & under, 10 & under,
12 & under, 14 & under, 16 & under, 18 & under, 20 & under. Individual
Trophies: All (6 & under), top 20 (8 & under, 10 & under, 12 & under), top
15 (14 & under), or top 10 (16 & under, 18 & under, 20 & under). "Super
Performance" trophies to players tied for last place with a trophy award
and the top player(s) in each rating class who did not get a place trophy.
Participation medals to all entrants. Team Trophies: Top 10 (6 & under,
8 & under, 10 & under, 12 & under) or top 5 (14 & under, 16 & under, 18
& under, 20 & under) based on section. Time control: G/90 except G/30
for Ages 6 & under and Ages 8 & under) Schedule: Onsite Registration:
Saturday 7:30-8:30am. Rounds: Saturday 9am, 12:45, 4:30pm, and Sun
9, 12:45pm. Ages 6 & under: Saturday 9:00am, 10:45am, 12:30pm, 2:00
pm, 3:30pm. Ages 8 & under: Onsite Registration: Sunday 7:30-8:30am.
Rounds: Sunday 9:00am, 10:45am, 12:30pm, 2:00pm, 3:30pm. Byes: Max
one 1/2-point bye except last round (must request before start of 1st
round). Entry Fees by 2/18: 1-day $48, 2-day $60, Add $10 (2/19-25),
$20 (2/26-3/1), $40 (3/2-3 & onsite). Blitz: Friday Registration: 5-
5:30pm, Games 6-8pm. 2 sections (11 & under, 20 & under). Bughouse:
Sunday Registration: 5-5:30pm, Games 6-8pm. 1 section. Side Event
Fees: Blitz $15, Bughouse $15, Bughouse team $25. Onsite +$2. Side
Event Prizes: Top 3 players and top 3 teams in each section. USCF
Membership required for all events except bughouse. March 2012 Sup-
plement & TD discretion to place players accurately. Commemorative
T-shirts: $15 pre-order, $20 onsite. Organizers/TDs: S. Azhar, R. Koepcke,
T. Langland, & J. McCumiskey. Sponsored by CalChess and Bay Area Chess.
More info & flyer: BayAreaChess.com/usjr12.php. Register online at
BayAreaChess.com/my/usjr12.php. Mail entries to Bay Area Chess,
1639A S. Main St., Milpitas, CA 95035. Register early to save. Questions:
ask@BayAreaChess.com. NS, NC, W. Chess Magnet School JGP for
G/90 rounds.
Apr. 13-15, Minnesota
2012 National High School (K-12) Championship
(Apr. 12 Bughouse & Blitz) 7SS, G/120. Hyatt Regency Minneapolis,
1300 Nicollet Mall, Minneapolis, MN 55403, 612-370-1234. Chess Rate
$125. 5 Sections: K-12 Championship, K-12 Under 1600, K-12 Under
1200, K-12 Under 800, K-12 Unrated. April Rating Supplement will
be used. Unrated players may play in the Championship or Unrated sec-
tion only. One 1/2-point bye for any round, except Rd. 7, if requested in
advance. EF: $50 if by March 25, $70 if by April 8, $85 by 6 PM CDT on
April 12 or $90 at site. Mailed entries must be p/m by April 8. $5 extra
for all phone registrations, $20 change fee for roster or section changes
after April 8. Onsite registration: Thurs. 9am-10pm & Fri. 8am-10am.
Players registering after 10am will get 1/2-point for Round 1. Awards:
A minimum of 1 individual trophy per 10 players and 1 team trophy per
15 players (average attendance in the past two years, not incl. SN IV)
plus plaques for 4 players and coach of top five teams in each section.
Class trophies to the top three in the following classes: K-12 Cham-
pionship: 1900-1999; 1800-1899; 1700-1799; 1600-1699; 1500-1599;
1400-1499; 1300-1399; 1200-1299; U1200, K-12 UNR. All participants will
receive a commemorative medal at the completion of the final round.
Teams: A team must have at least two players, although no maximum
number of players. The top four scores in any section will count for the
team score. All on team must attend the same school. Opening Cere-
mony: 12:30pm Friday. Main Event rounds: Friday 1pm, 7pm; Saturday
9am, 2pm, 7pm; Sunday 9am, 2pm. Awards Ceremony: Approx 7pm Sun-
day. Special Events: National High School Bughouse Championship:
Thursday 11am; EF: (On site only) $25 per team. Bughouse registration
ends at 10am Thurs. National High School Blitz Championship: Thurs-
day 5pm; EF: $15 per player, $20 after April 8 or on site. Scholastic
Meeting: 3pm Saturday. Parents and Friends Tournament: 4SS, G/30,
Saturday 10:30am, 12:30pm, 2:30pm, 4:30pm. Onsite registration only.
Rated and Unrated sections. Trophies for Parents/Friends, participant and
student combined results. ALL: Please bring clocks. Sets and score
sheets provided. USCF membership required. Mail entries to: U.S.
Chess Federation, Attn: High School, P.O. Box 3967, Crossville, TN 38557.
Additional details, updates, corrections and on-line registration:
http://www.uschess.org/tournaments/2012/hs. Chess Magnet School
JGP.
Apr. 20-22, Illinois
2012 All-Girls National Championships presented by the Kasparov
Chess Foundation in association with the Renaissance Knights
Chess Foundation & USCF
6SS, G/90 d5. Swissotel, 323 E. Wacker Dr., Chicago, IL 60601, 888-737-
9477, Hotel Rate includes full breakfast & children under 18 stay
free. 6 Sections: 8 years old and younger; 10 and younger, 12 and
younger, 14 and younger, 16 and younger, 18 and younger. Age as of
4/1/2011. USCF membership required. EF: $50 if postmarked/online by
3/25; $70 if by 4/8; $85 by 4/19; $90 after/ on-site Do not mail after 4/13
as your entry may not be received on time. Opening Ceremony: 6pm,
Friday. Rounds: Rd. 1 6:30pm Fri; Rounds 2-4 Sat 10am, 2:30pm, 6:30
pm; Rounds 5-6 Sun 9am & 1pm. Awards Ceremony: Sun. 5pm. Tro-
phies to top 15 indiv & top 3 teams (top 3 players added for team
scores). Bye: One 1/2-pt bye available, any round, if requested before
end of Rd. 2 and if player has not received a full-point bye. Side Events:
Bughouse Tournament Fri. 1pm, EF $25/team. Blitz Tournament
Fri. 3pm, EF $15 by 4/19, $20 after or on site. HR: $169-169 includes full
breakfast, children under 18 stay free, 888-737-9477, reserve by 3/15
or rate may increase. Entries: online/info at: www.renaissanceknights.
org/allgirls or mail to RKnights, Attn: All Girls, PO Box 1074, North-
brook, IL 60065, include name, section, rating, USCF ID#, date of birth,
grade, school name city & state. Chess Magnet School JGP.
Apr. 27-29, California, Southern
2012 National Junior High (K-9) Championship
(Apr. 26 Bughouse & Blitz) 7SS, G/120. Town and Country, 500 Hotel
Circle North, San Diego, CA 92108, 1-619-291-7131 or 800-772-8527,
Chess Rate $125. 6 Sections: K-9 Championship, K-9 Under 1250, K-
9 Unrated, K-8 Championship, K-8 Under 1000, K-8 U750. April
Rating Supplement will be used. Unrated players may play in the Cham-
pionship or Unrated sections only. One 1/2-point bye for any round,
except Rd. 7, if requested in advance. EF: $50 if by April 8, $70 if by April
22, $85 by 6 PM PDT on April 26 or $90 at site. Mailed entries must be
p/m by April 22. $5 extra for all phone registrations, $20 change fee for
roster or section changes after April 22. On-site registration: Thurs. 9am-
10pm & Fri. 8am-10am. Players registering after 10am will get 1/2-point
for Round 1. Awards: A minimum of 1 individual trophy per 10 players
and 1 team trophy per 15 players (average attendance in the past two
years, not incl. SN IV) plus plaques for 4 players and coach of top five
teams in each section. Class trophies to the top three in the follow-
ing classes: K-9 Championship: 1400-1599; 1200-1399; 1000-1199;
U1000; Unrated. K-8 Championship: 1500-1599; 1400-1499; 1300-1399;
1200-1299; 1100-1199; 1000-1099; U1000; UNR. All participants will
receive a commemorative medal at the completion of the final round.
Teams: A team must have at least two players, although no maximum
number of players. The top four scores in any section will count for the
team score. All on team must attend the same school. Opening Cere-
mony: 12:30pm Friday. Main Event rounds: Friday 1pm, 7pm; Saturday
9am, 2pm, 7pm; Sunday 9am, 2pm. Awards Ceremony: Approx 7pm Sun-
day. Special Events: National Junior High Bughouse Championship:
Thursday 11am; EF (on site only) $25 per team. Bughouse registration
ends at 10am Thurs. National Junior High Blitz Championship: Thurs-
day 5pm; EF $15 per player, $20 after April 22 or on site. Scholastic
Meeting: 3pm Saturday. Parents and Friends Tournament: 4SS, G/30,
Saturday 10:30am, 12:30pm, 2:30pm, 4:30pm. Onsite registration only.
Rated and Unrated sections. Trophies for Parent/Friends participant
and student combined results. ALL: Please bring clocks. Sets and score
sheets provided. USCF membership required. Mail entries to: U.S.
Chess Federation, Attn: Junior High, P.O. Box 3967, Crossville, TN 38557.
Additional details, updates, corrections and on-line registration:
http://www.uschess.org/tournaments/2012/jhs. Chess Magnet
School JGP.
May 11-13, Tennessee
2012 National Elementary (K-6) Championship
(May 10 Bughouse & Blitz) 7SS, G/120, K-1 G/90. Gaylord Opryland,
2800 Opryland Dr., Nashville, TN 37214. 615-889-1000 or 888-777-6779
Chess Rate $139. 9 Sections: K-6 Championship, K-6 Under 1000, K-
6 Unrated, K-5 Championship, K-5 Under 900, K-3 Championship,
K-3 U800, K-3 Unrated, K-1Championship. May Rating Supple-
ment will be used. Unrated players may play in the Championship or
Unrated sections only. One 1/2-point bye for any round, except Rd. 7, if
requested in advance. EF: $50 if by April 22, $70 if by May 6, $85 by 6
PM CDT on May 10 or $90 at site. Mailed entries must be p/m by May
6. $5 extra for all phone registrations, $20 change fee for roster or sec-
tion changes after May 6. On-site registration: Thurs. 9am-10pm & Fri.
8am-10am. Players registering after 10am will get 1/2-point for Round
1. Awards: A minimum of 1 individual trophy per 10 players and 1 team
trophy per 15 players (average attendance in the past two years, not incl.
SN IV) plus plaques for 4 players and coach of top five teams in each sec-
tion. Class trophies to the top three in the following classes: K-6
Championship: 1300-1399; 1200-1299; 1100-1199; 1000-1099; 900-999;
800-899; U800; UNR. K-5 Championship: 1300-1399; 1200-1299; 1100-
1199; 1000-1099; 900-999; 800-899; U800; UNR. K-3 Championship:
1100-1199; 1000-1099; 900-999; 800-899; 700-799; 600-699; U600;
UNR. K-1 Championship: All players in this section receive a trophy. All
participants will receive a commemorative medal at the completion of the
final round. Teams: A team must have at least two players, although no
maximum number of players. The top four scores in any section will count
for the team score. All on team must attend the same school. Open-
ing Ceremony: 12:30pm Friday. Main Event rounds: Friday 1pm, 7pm;
Saturday 9am, 2pm, 7pm; Sunday 9am, 2pm. Schedule for K-1: Friday
1:30pm, 6:30pm; Saturday 9:30am, 1:30pm, 6:30pm; Sunday 9:30am,
1:30pm. Awards Ceremony: Approx 7pm Sunday. Awards Ceremony
for K-1: Approx 5:30pm Sunday. Special Events: National Elementary
Bughouse Championship: Thursday 11am; EF (on site only) $25 per
team. Bughouse registration ends at 10am Thurs. National Elementary
Blitz Championship: Two sections: K-6 and K-3. Thursday 5pm; EF $15
per player, $20 after May 6 or on site. Scholastic Meeting: 3pm Satur-
day. Saturday. Parents and Friends Tournament: 4SS, G/30, Saturday
10:30am, 12:30pm, 2:30pm, 4:30pm. Trophies for Parents/Friends, par-
ticipant and student combined results. Mail entries to: U.S. Chess
Federation, Attn: Elementary, P.O. Box 3967, Crossville, TN 38557. Addi-
tional details, updates, corrections and on-line registration:
http://www.uschess.org/tournaments/2012/elem. Chess Magnet
School JGP.
A Heritage Event!
May 26-28 or 27-28, New Jersey
68th Annual U.S. Amateur East Championship
6-SS, 50/2, SD/1. Crowne Plaza Hotel, 110 Davidson Ave., Somerset, NJ,
Telephone 732-560-0500 (NYC train to Bound Brook 1 miles away). In 3
Sections: Championship (U2200), Reserved (U1800), Booster (U1400).
2-day & 3-day schedules. 3-Day Registration: Saturday May 26, 9:30-
10:45 am. Schedule: Rounds 12-6, 11-5, 9-3. 2-Day Registration:
Sunday May 27, 8:30-9:30 am. Schedule: First 3 games, 5/27, G/60.
Rounds 10-12:15-2:30. All schedules merge in round four. Each Sections:
Trophies to top five and top Senior 55/over and Jr's under ages 16 & 13.
Championship: Trophies to top U2000, U1900 and U1850. Reserve: Tro-
phies to top U1600 and U1500. Booster: Trophies to top U1200, U1100,
U1000, U900 and U800. EF: $49 if postmarked by May 23, or paid online
via EntryFeesRus.com. EF: at site $60 cash. Byes: Three 1/2 point byes
allowed in rounds 1-5. Ent: Ken Thomas, 115 W. Moore St., Hackettstown,
NJ 07840. Checks to NJSCF. Info: 908-619-8621 or acn@goes.com. NS.
NC. W. Chess Magnet School JGP.
June 9-10, Tennessee
2012 U.S. Amateur South Championship
University of Memphis, University Center, 499 University St., Memphis,
TN 38152. SECTIONS: Championship (U2200) & Reserve (U1600). SCHED-
ULE: 5/SS, G/90 td/5. Reg.: Sat. 9:00-9:45AM. Rds.: Sat. 10-2-6; Sun.
9:30-1:30. PRIZES: $1000 of Gift Certificates and awards based on 60
paid entries. (Championship): 1st-River Cup trophy + $150 GC, 2nd-
plaque +$100 GC, 3rd-plaque+$75 GC; U2000 1st-small trophy+$50
GC. (Reserve): 1st-large plaque+$125 GC, 2nd-plaque+$75 GC, 3rd-
plaque+$50 GC; U1400 1st-small trophy+$50 GC; Unrated 1st-$50 GC.
EF: $40 ($10 less to Juniors under age 18 or Seniors over age 60), $50
on-site. MISC: One requested half-point bye allowed, any round, must
request before the start of Round 3. SIDE EVENT: SATURDAY ONLY
Scholastic (K-12) sections in a separate room from main tournament:
U1000, U550, & Unrated. 4/SS, G/30 td/5. Reg. 11-11:45AM. Rd. 1 at
12PM, rest ASAP. EF-$15 by two days before the event, $20 after & on-
site. Trophies or Medals for all Side Event players! ADDL. DETAILS:
www.shelbycountychess.org. ENTRY: Online entry at www.cajunchess.com
or mail registration to Shelby County Chess, ATTN: Amateur South, 1614
Vance Ave., Memphis, TN 38104. INFO: Arlene Kleiman, midsouthchess@
hotmail.com; Korey Kormick, kjkormick@hotmail.com. Chess Magnet
School JGP for main event.
June 14, Nevada
Trophies Plus Grand Prix Points: 80 (Enhanced)
2012 U.S. Game/10 Championship (QC)
6SS, G/10. FIDE Rated. Riviera Hotel and Casino, 2901 Las Vegas Boule-
vard South, Las Vegas 89109. $$G 5,000. 1500-800-500, U2300 450,
U2100 400, U1900 350, U1700 300, U1500 250, U1300 200, U1100 150,
unrated 100. There must be 3 players eligible for each prize to be
awarded. EF: $69 by 5/28, $79 by 6/13 $100 on site. REG.: 2-4 p.m. Rds.:
5-5:30-6-6:30-7-7:30. Higher of regular or quick rating used. Bring
Effective with TLAs submitted after November 10, 2010, the fol-
lowing additional rules apply to Grand Prix tournaments:
1) The guaranteed first prize must be at least $150.
2) No more than one prize under $100 may count towards the
Grand Prix point total.
3) Prizes below the maximum entry fee do not count towards
the Grand Prix point total.
USCF Membership Rates
Premium (P) and Regular (R)
(U.S., CANADA, MEXICO)
Type 1 yr 2yr 3yr
Adult P $46 $84 $122
Adult R $40 $72 $104
Senior (65+) $40 $72 $104
Young Adult P (U25)* $33 $61 $88
Young Adult R (U25)* $26 $47 $67
Youth P (U16)* $28 $51 $73
Youth R (U16)* $22 $40 $57
Scholastic P (U13)* $24 $43 $61
Scholastic R (U13)* $17 $30 $42
Premium membership provides a printed copy
of Chess Life (monthly) or Chess Life for Kids
(bimonthly) plus all other benefits of regular
membership. Regular membership provides
online-only access to Chess Life and Chess Life
for Kids; a tournament life announcement
newsletter will be mailed to adults bimonthly
and to scholastic members three times per
year. Youth provides bimonthy Chess Life,
Scholastic bimonthly Chess Life for Kids, oth-
ers listed above monthly Chess Life. See
www.uschess.org for other membership cat-
egories. Dues are not refundable and may be
changed without notice.
*Ages at expiration
Tournament Life
clocks. 1/2 point bye available in any round (limit 2). HR: $59 single or
double ($89 Friday and Saturday nights). 1-800-634-6753 or (702) 734-
5110. ENT: National Open, PO Box 90925, Henderson, NV 89009-0925,
on line www.VegasChessFestival.com or fax at (702) 933-9112. NS.
NC. W.
A Heritage Event!
An American Classic!
June 15-17 or 16-17, Nevada
2012 National Open
6-SS, 40/2, SD/1 (2 day option rds 1-3 G/45). Riviera Hotel and Casino,
2901 Las Vegas Boulevard South, Las Vegas 89109. $80,000 Guaran-
teed Prize Fund will not be reduced. Championship. $$: 6400-3200-
1600-800-500-300-300-300-300-300-200-200-200-200-200, under 2500
1600, under 2400 1200, under 2300 1000. $2,000 EXTRA for perfect score.
The winner of the Championship section also receives a replica of the
Edmondson Cup. Under 2200. $$: 3200-1600-800-500-400-250-250-
250-250-250-200-200-200-200-200. Under 2000. $$: 3200-1600-800-
500-400-250-250-250-250-250-200-200-200-200-200. Under 1800. $$:
3200-1600-800-500-400-250-250-250-250-250-200-200-200-200-200.
Under 1600. $$: 3200-1600-800-500-400-250-250-250-250-250-200-
200-200-200-200. Under 1400. $$: 2000-1000-700-400-300-250-250-250-
250-250. Under 1200. $$: 1200-600-400-300-250-200-200-200-200.
Unrated, $$: 500-300-200. Plus Score Bonus ($14,000 guaranteed) in
addition to any other prizes, every player who finishes with 3-1/2 points
or better wins a $50 gift certificate. Plus score certificates will be
awarded on site only. Players under age 15 are eligible for best game
prizes including the Freddie award plus $200 (donated by Fred Gruen-
berg). Top 2 sections FIDE rated. EF: $169 by 2/29, $199 by 5/28, $219
by 6/13, $240 on site. $40 discount for seniors 65 and over. Add $120
for adults rated under 2100 or juniors under 2000 playing in the Cham-
pionship Section. This is an open tournament - you may play in any
section at or above your rating level; unrated players may play only in
Unrated or Championship Section. Provisionally rated players may not
win more than 3rd prize in any section except Championship. CCA mini-
mum ratings or other ratings may be used if higher than USCF June
Supplement. Reg.: 3 p.m.-10 p.m. Thursday, 8-9:30 a.m. Friday. Rds.: 11-
6, 10-5, 10-5. 2-day schedule: Reg.: 8-9 a.m. Saturday. Rds.: 10-12-2-5:
merge with 3-day in round 4. Half point byes available in any round, but
round 5 or 6 byes must be requested before the start of round 2. Chess
sets and boards provided for tournament play only, not for skittles.
Please bring chess clocks! The LAS VEGAS INTERNATIONAL CHESS FES-
TIVAL features the National Open, the U.S Game/10 Championship, the
International Youth Championship and other events. Many free extras
and surprises! Free parking. Free raffle with great prizes. Free GM Lec-
tures. Free GM analysis of your games. Grandmaster Chess Camp for
all ages on Thursday. U.S. Game/10 and Grandmaster Simuls Thurs-
day afternoon. Youth Tournaments Friday, Saturday & Sunday. Poker
Tournament Monday morning. LOW room rates! HR: $59 single or dou-
ble ($89 Friday and Saturday nights). 1-800-634-6753 or (702)
734-5110. Don't be shut out; make your reservations early and be
sure to ask for the chess rates; The Riviera sells out most weekends.
Cutoff for special hotel rate is May 28th. Rates may be as high as $150
a night later. RESERVE NOW! Credit card or one night room deposit will
be required to hold reservation, may be canceled 72 hours in advance
for nominal fee. Tournament Registration: National Open, PO Box
90925, Henderson, NV 89009-0925, on line at www.VegasChessFestival.
com or by fax at (702) 933-9112. Info: (702) 560-0955 and leave a mes-
sage. NS. W. FIDE. Chess Magnet School JGP.
Grand Prix
Mar. 9-11 or 10-11, California, Southern
19th annual Western Class Championships
5SS, 40/2, SD/1, d/5 (2-day option, rds.1-2 G/75, d/5). Sheraton Agoura
Hills Hotel (formerly Renaissance), 30100 Agoura Rd., Agoura Hills, CA
91301 (US-101 to Reyes Adobe Road exit). Adjacent to the Santa Mon-
ica Mountains, 26 miles west of Burbank, 12 miles from Malibu, 28 miles
from Ventura. Free parking. $$20,000 based on 230 paid entries (re-
entries, Class E count as half entries), minimum $16,000 (80% each
prize) guaranteed. In 7 sections. Master (over 2199): $2000-1000-500-
300, clear or tiebreak winner $100 bonus, topU2300 $800-400. FIDE.
Expert (2000-2199): $1500-800-400-200. Class A (1800-1999): $1500-
800-400-200. Class B (1600-1799): $1500-800-400-200. Class C
(1400-1599): $1400-700-400-200. Class D (1200-1399): $1200-600-300-
200. Class E (Under1200): $600-300-200-100, trophies to top U1000,
U800, U600, Unr. Rated players may play up one section. Prize limits:
Unrated may not win over $150 in E, $250 D, $400 C, $600 B, or $800 A.
If any post-event rating posted at uschess.org 12/8/11-3/8/12 is
more than 30 points over section maximum, prize limit $500. Balance of
any limited prize goes to next player(s) in line. Top 6 sections EF: 3-day
$113, 2-day $112 mailed by 3/1, all $115 online at chesstour.com by 3/6,
$120 phoned to 406-896-2038 by 3/6 (entry only, no questions), $130 at
site. EF for all in Class E Section, and unrated in Class D: all $60 less.
Unofficial uschess.org ratings usually used if otherwise unrated. All: Spe-
cial 1 yr USCF dues with Chess Life if paid with entry: Online at
chesstour.com. Adult $30, Young Adult $20, Scholastic $15.Mailed, phoned
or paid at site, Adult $40, Young Adult $30, Scholastic $20. Re-entry
(except Master) $60. SCCF memb. ($18, jr $10) required for rated South-
ern CA residents. 3-day schedule: Reg. Fri to 6 pm, rds Fri 7, Sat 11 &
6, Sun 10 & 4:30. 2-day schedule: Reg. Sat to 10 am, rds Sat 11, 2:30
& 6, Sun 10 & 4:30. Byes: OK all rds, limit 2; Master must commit before
rd 2, others before rd 3. HR: $87-87, 818-707-1220, reserve by 3/5 or
rate may increase. Car rental: Avis, 800-331-1600, use AWD#D657633.
Questions: chesstour.com, 845-496-9658, DirectorAtChess.us. Ent: Con-
tinental Chess, PO Box 249, Salisbury Mills, NY 12577. $15 service
charge for withdrawals. Advance entries posted at chesstour.com. Chess
Magnet School JGP.
NATIONAL SPRING
SCHOLASTIC
CHAMPI ONSHI PS
NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL
(K-12) CHAMPIONSHIP
APRIL 1315, 2012
Hyatt Regency Minneapolis
1300 Nicolett Mall
Minneapolis, MN 55403
612-370-1234
Chess rate: $125
single/double/triple/quad
NATIONAL JUNIOR HIGH
(K-9) CHAMPIONSHIP
APRIL 2729, 2012
Town and Country Resort
500 Hotel Circle North
San Diego, CA 92108
1-800-772-8527
Chess rate: $125
NATIONAL ELEMENTARY
(K-6) CHAMPIONSHIP
MAY 1113, 2012
Gaylord Opryland Resort and
Convention Center
2800 Opryland Drive
Nashville, TN 37214
615-889-1000 or 888-777-6779
Chess rate: $139
FOR MORE DETAI LS VI SI T USCHESS. ORG
2012
Mar. 10, New York
Trophies Plus Grand Prix Points: 10
13th Annual Bruce Bowyer Memorial
4SS, G/45. Hotel New Yorker, 8th Avenue & 34 St., NYC. EF: $20. $$G:
$250-$175-$125, U2200 $100, U2000 $75, U1800 $60. Reg.: 11:15-
11:45. Rds.: 12-1:45-3:45-5:30pm. Ent: Cks or MO payable to: Pat
Bowyer (be sure to specify Grand Prix, Saturday), c/o PAR Group, Inc.,
119 N. Park Avenue, Suite 303, Rockville Centre, NY 11570. Limit 70
players & positively NO door ents. March 10: Bughouse team tourney
starting time: 8pm, 5 minute Swiss or roundrobin depending on # of
entries. 2 players per team. EF: $5/player. Cash to top team.
Mar. 16-18 or 17-18, California, Northern
Bay Area Chess Spring Open
5SS, G/120 (2day rds 1-2 G/45). 1639A S. Main St., Milpitas. Park free.
Prize: $2,400 b/55. 3 sections. 1900+ $300-200-100 u2100:100-80.
1500-1899 $300-200-70 u1700:100-70-70. U1500 $300-200-70 u1300:100-
70-70. Unr max $100 exc Open. EF: $67 (2d $66) by 3/14, Onsite +15
Playup +20, r/e 33 EconOpt: EF-20, 1/2 of calc prize. GMs/IMs free:
prize-EF. Mar 12 Supp, CCA min & TD disc used. Sched: Reg F 6-6:30p,
Rds F 7, Sa/Su 9:30, 2 (2day Reg Sa 8:30-9a Rds Sa 9:30, 11:30 merge
rd3). Max two 1/2-pt byes commit bef rd3. Info: BayAreaChess.com/
spring12. E: ask@BayAreaChess.com, NS, NC, W. Chess Magnet School
JGP.
Mar. 16-18 or 17-18, Missouri
16th annual Mid-America Open
5SS, 40/2, SD/1, d/5 (2-day option, rds 1-2 G/75,d/5). Crowne Plaza Hotel
St. Louis-Clayton, 7750 Carondelet Ave., St. Louis, MO 63105 (I-64 W/US
40-W Exit 32B, 1.2 miles north on Hanley Rd). $$ 18,000 based on 220
paid entries (re-entries & $60 off entries count half, U900 Section 1/4),
minimum$12,000 (2/3 each prize) guaranteed. In 7 sections: Open:
$2000-1000-500-300, clear winner or 1st on tiebreak $100 bonus, top
U2300 $900, U2200 $800, U2100 $700. FIDE. Under 2000: $1400-700-
400-200. Under 1800: $1300-700-400-200. Under 1600: $1200-600-300-
200. Under 1400: $1000-500-250-150. Under 1200: $1000-500-250-150.
Under 900: $200-100, trophies to first 5, top U700, U500, Unrated.
Prize limits: Unrated may not win over $100 in U900, $200 U1200,
$400 U1400, $700 U1600, or $900 in U1800. If any post-event rating
posted at uschess.org 12/15/11-3/15/12 is more than 30 points over sec-
tion maximum, prize limit $500. Balance of any limited prize goes to next
player(s) in line. Top 6 sections EF: 3-day $109, 2-day $108 mailed by
3/8, all $110 online at chesstour.com by 3/13, $115 phoned to 406-896-
2038 by 3/15 (entry only, no questions), $130 at site. $60 less to unrated
in U1200 or U1400. U900 Section EF: All $80 less than top 6 sections
EF. No checks at site, credit cards OK. GMs free, $100 deducted from prize.
All: Unofficial uschess.org ratings usually used if otherwise unrated. Spe-
cial 1 yr USCF dues with magazine if paid with entry: Online
atchesstour.com, Adult $30, Young Adult $20, Scholastic $15. Mailed,
phoned or paid at site, Adult $40, Young Adult $30, Scholastic $20. Re-
entry $60; not available in Open Section. MCA memb. ($5) required for
MO residents. 3-day schedule: Reg ends Fri 6pm, rds Fri 7 pm, Sat 11
& 6, Sun 10 & 4:15. 2-day schedule: Reg ends Sat 10 am, rds Sat 11,
2:30 & 6, Sun 10 & 4:15. Byes: OK all, limit 2; Open must commit before
rd 2, others before rd 3. HR: $89-89, 888-303-1746, 314-726-5400,
request chess rate, reserve by 3/2 or rate may increase. Car rental: Avis,
800-331-1600, use AWD#D657633, or reserve car online through chess-
tour.com. Ent: Continental Chess, Box 249, Salisbury Mills, NY 12577.
Questions: DirectorAtChess.us, 845-496-9658. Advance entries posted
at chesstour.com. $15 service charge for refunds. Chess Magnet School
JGP.
Mar. 16-18 or 17-18, New York
Long Island Open
5SS, 40/2, SD/1, d/5 (2-day option, rds 1-2G/75, d/5). Holiday Inn Long
Island - Islip Airport, 3845 Veterans Memorial Highway, Ronkonkoma, NY
11779. Free parking, free shuttle from LIRR or Islip Airport. Prizes
$12,000 based on 150 paid entries, $8000 minimum (2/3 each prize) guar-
anteed; re-entries & $50 off entries count as half entries. In 4 sections.
Open: $1500-800-500-300, clear or tiebreak winner $100 bonus,
topU2300/Unr $600, U2200/Unr $500. FIDE. Under 2100: $1000-600-
400-300, top U1900 $500, U1800 $400. Under 1700: $900-500-300-200,
top U1500 $450, U1400 $350. Under 1300: $800-400-200-100, topU1100
$300. Unrated may not win over $200 in U1300 or $400 in U1700. EF:
3-day $103, 2-day $102 mailed by 3/8, all $105 online at chesstour.com
by 3/13, $110 phoned to 406-896-2038 by 3/13 (entry only, no questions),
$120 (no checks, credit cards OK) at site. GMs free; $100 deducted
from prize. EF for Under 1000 or unrated in U1300: (NOTE CHANGE):
$50 less. Unofficial uschess.org ratings usually used if otherwise unrated.
Special 1 year USCF dues with Chess Life if paid with entry. Online at
chesstour.com, Adult $30, Young Adult $20, Scholastic $15. Mailed,
entry $60; not available in Open Section. 3-day schedule: Reg ends Fri
6:30 pm, rds. Fri 7 pm, Sat 11 & 6, Sun 10 & 4:15. 2-day schedule: Reg
ends Sat 10:30 am, rds. Sat 11, 2:30 & 6, Sun 10 & 4:15. All: Half point
byes OK all, limit 2, Open must commit before rd 2, others before rd 3.
HR: $75-75, 631-471-0401, reserve by 3/2 or rate may increase. Car
rental: Avis, 800-331-1600, AWD D657633, or reserve car online through
chesstour.com. Ent: Continental Chess, Box 249, Salisbury Mills, NY
12577. $15 service charge for refunds. Questions: www.chesstour.com,
DirectorAtChess.US, 845-496-9658. Advance entries posted at chess
tour.com. Chess Magnet School JGP.
Mar. 17, New Jersey
St. Patricks Day
Somerset Holiday Inn, 195 Davidson Ave., Somerset: Exit #10 off I-287,
off Easton Ave. (One Open Section and K-8 Quads). Grand Prix Section:
4SS, G/60, $$G: $300-200-100-100-50. Also $75 Minimum Prize (not a
class prize-see web site) Top Expert, A, B, and U1600 No pooling nor dupli-
cate prizes! Trophies to 1st, Top Exp. A, B, C, D/E, Sr., Jr. EF: $39 on
entryfeesrus.com. $49 cash at site. Reg.: 9-10am. Starts at 10 am then
ASAP with lunch break. Scholastic Quads (K-8): 3RR, G/45, EF: $15 early
EntryFeesRus.com or $20 cash at site by 10am. $$G: $40 or Trophy, all
get awards. 1st round 10am then ASAP with lunch break. Info: call Ken
at 908-619-8621 or email, njchess64@yahoo.com. NS, NC, W.
Mar. 17-18, Tennessee
Saint Patricks Day Open
5SS, G/120 (Open & U1600). Site: Greater Memphis Chess Center, 5796
Shelby Oaks Dr., Suite 11, Memphis, TN 38134. Round times: Sat 9-2-
7, Sun 9-2. EF: $25 before 3-15-12, $30 after and onsite. GMCC and MCC
members $25 anytime. USCF Youth and Scholastic Players may enter either
Section to compete for no prize money for $15 anytime. Re-entry after
round one: $15. Guaranteed Prize Fund: Open: 1st $200, 2nd 100, 3rd
50, Top U1600: 1st 100, 2nd 50, 3rd 25. Special U1000 Scholastic sec-
tion. 4 round G/1. Entry fee: $15. Round times: Sat 9-11:30, 2, 4:30.
Trophies to top 10. Onsite Registration: Saturday 3/17: 7am-8:30am.
Tournament Director: Gary M. Pylant, gpylant@gmail.com, 901-359-
8616. www.memphischess.com. Chess Magnet School JGP.
Mar. 20, New York
Marshall Masters!
4-SS, G/25d5. Third Tuesday of every month. Marshall CC, 23 W. 10th St.,
NYC. 212-477-3716. Open to players rated over 2100 (plus all players scor-
ing over 50% in any MCC Open or U2300 tournament since the prior
month's Masters). EF: $40, members $30, GMs free. $$G250-150-100.
Prizes to U2400, U2300 and biggest upset. Reg.: 6:15-6:45 pm. Rds.: 7-
8:15-9:30-10:45. One bye available (Rd 1 or 4 only), request at entry.
www.marshallchessclub.org.
Mar. 23, New York
Bobby Fischer Memorial Speed Chess Tournament
9-SS, G/5. Marshall CC, 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. $$G 1525:
$500-300-200-100, top U2400/unr, U2200, U2000, U1800: $50 each,
Best Senior born in or before 1952: $100-50, Best Junior born in or after
1998: $50-25. EF: $25, members $20. Quick-rated, but higher of regu-
lar or quick USCF rating used for pairings & prizes. Reg. ends 6:45 pm.
Rds.: 7-7:30-7:50-8:10-8:40-9-9:20-9:40-10 pm. Three byes available,
request at entry. www.marshallchessclub.org. This tournament has been
made possible through the generosity of Mr. Paul M. Albert, Jr.
Mar. 23-25 or 24-25, Pennsylvania
13th annual Pittsburgh Open
5SS, 40/2, SD/1. d/5 (2-day option,rds 1-2 G/75, d/5). Doubletree Hotel
Pittsburgh Green Tree (formerly Radisson), 101 Radisson Dr., Pittsburgh,
PA 15205. 3 miles south of downtown, 13 miles from Pittsburgh airport
(free shuttle). Free parking. $$12,000 based on 150 paid entries (re-
entries & $50 off entries count half), $9000 (75% each prize) minimum
guaranteed. In 5 sections. Open: $1500-800-400-200, clear or tiebreak
winner $100 bonus, top Under 2300/Unr $700, Under 2200/Unr $600.
Under 2100: $1000-500-300-200, top Under 1900 $400. Under 1800:
$1000-500-300-200, top Under 1600 $400. Under 1500: $800-400-300-
200, top Under 1300 $300. Under 1200: $400-250-150-100, trophies to
top Under 1000, Under 800, Under 600, Unrated. Unrated may not win
over $150 in U1200, $300 U1500, or $500 U1800. Top 4 sections EF: 3-
day $103.50, 2-day $102.50mailed by 3/15, all $107 online at chesstour.
com by 3/20, $110 phoned to 406-896-2038 by 3/20 (entry only, no
questions), $120 (no checks, credit cards OK) at site. GMs free; $100
deducted from prize. Under 1200 Section EF: $50 less than above. Unof-
ficial uschess.org ratings usually used if otherwise unrated. Special 1
year USCF dues with magazine if paid with entry: online at chesstour.com,
Adult $30, Young Adult $20, Scholastic $15. Mailed, phoned or paid at site,
Adult $40, Young Adult $30, Scholastic $20. Re-entry $60; not available
in Open Section. 3-day schedule: Reg ends Fri 6 pm, rds. Fri 7 pm, Sat
11 am & 6 pm, Sun 10 am & 4:15 pm. 2-day schedule: Reg ends Sat 10
am, rds. Sat 11 am, 2:30 pm & 6 pm, Sun 10 am & 4:15 pm. All: Half point
byes OK all, limit 2, Open must commit before rd 2, others before rd3.
HR: $91-91-91-91, 1-800-395-7046, 412-922-8400; reserve by 3/9or
rate may increase. Car rental: Avis, 800-331-1600, AWDD657633, or
reserve car online through chesstour.com. Ent: Continental Chess, Box
249, Salisbury Mills, NY 12577. $15 service charge for refunds. Ques-
tions: www.chesstour.com, Director@Chess.US, 845-496-9658. Advance
entries posted atchesstour.com. Chess Magnet School JGP.
Mar. 30-Apr. 1 or Mar. 31-Apr. 1, Florida
10th Annual Southern Class Championships
5SS, 40/2, SD/1, d/5(2-day option, rds 1-2 G/75, d/5). Wyndham Orlando
Resort, 8001 International Dr., Orlando 32819. Free parking. $$14,000
based on 200 paid entries (re-entries & $50 off entries count half),
$10,500 (3/4 each prize) minimum guaranteed. In 7 sections. Master
(2200/up): $1200-600-400-300, clear or tiebreak winner$100 bonus. FIDE.
Expert (2000-2199): $1000-500-300-200. Class A (1800-1999): $1000-
500-300-200. Class B (1600-1799): $1000-500-300-200. Class C
(1400-1599): $1000-500-300-200. Class D (1200-1399): $800-400-
300-200. Class E (Under 1200): $800-400-300-200. Rated players
may play up one section. Unrated may enter A through E, but may not
win over $200 in E, $350 D, $500 C or $650 B. EF: 3-day $98, 2-day $97
mailed by 3/23, all $99 online atchesstour.com by 3/27, $105 phoned to
406-896-2038 by 3/27 (entry only, no questions), $120 (no checks, credit
cards OK) at site. GMs free; $90 deducted from prize. EF for under 1000
or unrated in E: all $50 less. Unofficial uschess.org ratings usually
used if otherwise unrated. Special 1 year USCF dues with magazine
if paid with entry. Online at chesstour.com, Adult $30, Young Adult $20,
Scholastic $15. Mailed, phoned or paid at site, Adult $40, Young Adult $30,
Scholastic $20. Re-entry $60; not available in Master Section. 3-day
schedule: Reg ends Fri 6 pm, rds. Fri 7 pm, Sat 11& 6, Sun 10 & 4:15.
2-day schedule: Reg ends Sat 10 am, rds. Sat 11, 2:30 & 6, Sun 10 &
4:15. All: Half point byes OK all, limit 2, Open must commit before rd 2,
others before rd 3. HR: $81-81 plus resort fee (currently 7.5%), 1-800-
421-8001, 407-351-2420; reserve by 3/16 or rate may increase. Car
rental: Avis, 800-331-1600, AWD D657633, or reserve car online through
DirectorAtChess.us, 845-496-9658. Advance entries posted at chesstour.
com. Chess Magnet School JGP.
Mar. 30-Apr. 1, North Carolina
The Big Enchilada II
Holiday Inn - Highwoods, 2805 Highwoods Blvd., Raleigh, NC 27604. 5-
SS, 30/90 SD/60 or Rd.1 G/90 for two day. $7,000 b/132. $5,000 GTD!!
OPEN (FIDE rated): $1,000-$500-$300-150-100. X, u2000 $300-$100 ea.
U1800: $800-$400-$250-150-100. u1600 $250-$100. U1400: $700-$350-
$200-150-100. u1200 $200-$100 Top Upset in each section: $60-40.
ALL: EF: $70 (by 3/23)/$80 on site. +$2 for PayPal Re-entry $40 (counts
as 1/2 EF). GM/IM Free. $70 deducted from any prize. NCCA req'd OSA.
Up to 2 byes allowed. Must request by noon Sat. Reg.: Fri. 6PM-7:45PM.
Sat. 8AM-9:45AM. Rds.: Fri. 8PM or Sat. 10AM. Then 2PM-8PM, Sun. 9AM-
2:30PM. Unr. may not win 1st prize in U1400 or U1800. INFO: Jeff Jones
(919) 270-9948. RaleighChess@yahoo.com. ENT: RTCC, PO Box 37331
Raleigh, NC 27627. HR: $79 1-4. (919) 872-3500. Ask for the Chess rate
by 3/23 to guarantee. Website: http://www.chesstbe.info/. Chess Mag-
net School JGP.
SOUTHERN CLASS CHAMPIONSHIPS
March 30-April 1 or March 31-April 1, Orlando
$14,000 projected prizes, $10,500 minimum!
5 round s, WyndhamOrlando Resort- $81 chess rate +7.5%resort
fee. Prizes $14,000 based on 200 paid entries (re-entries & $50 off
entries count half); 75% each prize minimum guarantee. 7 sections:
Master (2200/up): $1200-600-400-300, clear/tiebreak win $100.
Expert (2000-2199): $1000-500-300-200.
Class A (1800-1999): $1000-500-300-200.
Class B (1600-1799): $1000-500-300-200, unrated limit $650.
Class C (1400-1599): $1000-500-300-200, unrated limit $500.
Class D (1200-1399): $800-400-300-200, unrated limit $350.
Class E (Under 1200): $800-400-300-200, unrated limit $200.
Rated players may play up one section. Unrated may enter A through E.
FULL DETAILS: see Grand Prix in this issue or chesstour.com.
Tournament Life
A State Championship Event!
Mar. 31, Connecticut
2012 CT Open State Championship
$$2000 b/60. 4-SS, G/60. Hopkins School, 986 Forest Rd., New Haven,
CT 06515. Two Sections: OPEN, U1600. EF: $60 Online or mail, $100 at
site. Prizes: Open $500-$300-$200 3x$100, 5x$50, U1600 $300- $100-
$50. Trophies: CT Open Champion, U1600 Champion, ONE DAY Reg.:
8:00-8:45. Rds.: 9-11-1-3. Register Online: www.edutechchess.com or
www.CTChess.com.
Mar. 31-Apr. 1 or Apr. 1, New York
Marshall March/April Grand Prix!
4-SS, 30/85d5, SD/1d5. Marshall CC, 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212 477-
3716. EF: $50, members $30. $$625 Gtd: 275-150, U2200/unr. $105,
U2000 $95. Reg. ends 15 min. before round. Rds.: 2 schedules: 2-day,
Rds. 12:30-5:30PM each day; 1-day, (Rds. 1-2 G/25d5) 10-11:15AM-12:30-
5:30PM Sun; both merge rd. 3. Limit 2 byes, request at entry. NO
RE-ENTRY. FIDE (G/30 not FIDE ratable). www.marshallchessclub.org.
Chess Magnet School JGP.
A Heritage Event!
Mar. 31-Apr. 1, New York
2012 Marchand Open (34th Annual)
Dr. Erich Marchand requested that his friends play chess in his mem-
ory. 5SS, 30/60, SD/60 5 Sec delay. Location: Strong National Museum
of Play, One Manhattan Square, Rochester, NY. $$10,750 Gtd. Open Sec-
tion: $2000-1300-850-550-300, Under 2200 & U2000 each $500-300. FIDE
Rated EF: $70. U1800 Section: $600-400-250. Under 1600 $400-250. EF:
$65. U1400 Section: $400-275-175. Under 1200 $275-175. EF: $60.
U1000 Section: $260-190-130-70. Under 800 $150-90-60. EF: $55.
Unrated players in the U1800 section can only win $125, in U1400 & U1000
$55. IM and GM's free if registered by 3/17. Great food available at site.
Reg.: 8:30-9:15 am. Rds.: 10-2:15-6:30, 10-2:15. One 1/2 point bye
available in rd 1. 2, 3, or 4 if requested at entry. Info: 585-442-2430. Ent:
Rochester Chess Center, 221 Norris Dr., Rochester, NY 14610. W. Chess
Magnet School JGP.
Apr. 1, New Jersey
Dr. David Ostfeld Memorial ICA Spring 2012 Open Championship
Bergen Academy, 200 Hackensack Ave., Hackensack, NJ 07601. Open To
All Ages With Rating above 1400. 4SS, G/60. U. S. Chess Federation Mem-
bership Required, Prize Fund ($$ b/40) 1st - 3rd $300, $250, $200,
U2200, U2000, U1800, U1600 each $100. Best Under 13 Years Old $75,
Best Over 55 Years Old $75. Prize Fund Will Not Be Reduced Below 70%.
Reg Ends at 9 AM Only one requested 1/2-point bye allowed, if requested
before the start of round two. EF: Adv (pmk. By Mar 28th) $40, AT Site
$45. GMs Free Entry. INFO: 201-287-0250 or 201-833-1741, Email:
Diana@icanj.net (Web Site Entries: www.icanj.net). Rds.: 9:30 AM,
11:45 AM, 2:15 PM, 4:30 PM. ENT: Make EF and/or USCF Membership
checks payable to: International Chess Academy. Mail To: Diana Tulman,
28 Canterbury Ln., New Milford, NJ 07646. NS. NC. W.
Apr. 1, Pennsylvania
2012 PA State Game/29 Champ. (QC)
5SS, G/29d0. OHara Student Center, Univ. of Pitt., 4024 OHara St.,
Pittsburgh, PA 15213. 2 Sections: Champ: EF: $25 by 3/24, $35 later. $$
(690G): $200-100, U2000 $90, U1800 $80, U1600 $70, U1400 $60, U1200
$50, U1000 $40. Trophies: 1-3 U1400, 1-3 U1200, 1-3 U1000. Scholas-
tic: Grades K-12 unrated or U900. EF: $15 by 3/24, $25 later. Trophies
to Top 7, 1-3 U600. ALL: Trophies: 1-2 Schools, 1-2 Clubs, Teams of 4-7
players from both sections. PSCF $5, OSA. Reg.: 10-10:30am. Rds.: 11-
12:30-1:45-3-4:15. Ent/Info: PSCF, c/o Tom Martinak, 25 Freeport St.,
Pittsburgh, PA 15223-2245, 412-908-0286, W.
Apr. 2-23, New York
93rd Nassau Grand Prix
4-SS, 40/80. 1st Presbyterian Church, 1st & Main Sts., Mineola. 2 sec-
tions. Open: EF: $36 by 3/31. $$ (630 b/20, top 2 G) 180-120, U2100, 1900,
1700/UR each 110. Booster: open to U1500/UR. EF: $19 by 3/31. $$ (210
b/14) 90, U1300, 1100/UR each 60. Both: 2 byes 1-4 (Last rd bye must
be req before rd 3 and is irrevocable). $10 more for non-memb. EF $7
more at site. Reg ends 7:15 PM. Rds.: 7:15 each Mon. Info only:
captnhal@optonline.net. Ent: Harold Stenzel, 80 Amy Dr., Sayville, NY
11782. Chess Magnet School JGP.
Apr. 4-8, 5-8, 6-8 or 7-8, Pennsylvania
6th annual Philadelphia Open
In 8 sections. Open Section, Apr 4-8: 9SS, 40/90, SD/30, inc30. GM &
IM norms possible, FIDE rated. U2200 to Under 1200 Sections, Apr
5-8, 6-8 or 7-8: 7SS, 40/2, SD/1, d/5 (3-day option, rds. 1-2 G/75, d/5,
2-day option, rds. 1-4 G/40, d/5). Under 1000 Section, Apr 7-8: 7SS,
G/40, d/5. At the upscale, luxury Loews Philadelphia Hotel, rated
Four Diamonds by AAA, 1200 Market St., Philadelphia, PA 19107. Prizes
$80,000 based on 500 paid entries (seniors, re-entries, GMs, IMs,
WGMs count as half entries, U1200 Section 40%entries, U1000 Section
15% entries), else proportional, minimum $60,000 (75% of each prize)
guaranteed. Open: $7000-4000-2000-1000-800-700-600-500-400-400,
clear or tiebreak first $200 bonus, FIDE Under 2400/Unr $2000-1000.
Under 2200, Under 2000, Under 1800: each $5000-2500-1200-800-600-
500-400-300-300-300. Under 1600, Under 1400: each $4000-2000-1000-
700-500-400-300-200-200-200. Under 1200: $1500-800-500-300-200-200-
200-100-100-100. Under 1000: $400-200-100, trophies to first 5, top U800,
U600, U400, Unrated. Prize limits: 1) If official rating 4/11-3/12 or unof-
ficial post-event rating posted at uschess.org 4/4/11-4/4/12 is more than
30 points over section maximum, prize limit $1500. 2) Unrated (0-3 life-
time games rated) cannot win over $200 in U1000, $400 U1200, $800
U1400, $1200 U1600, $1600 U1800, or $2000 U2000. Unofficial uschess.
org ratings usually used if otherwise unrated. 3) Provisional (4-25 life-
time games rated) cannot win over $300 in U1000, $800 U1200, $1500
U1400, or $2500 U1600. 4) Balance of any limited prize goes to next
player(s) in line. Open EF: free to GMs, IMs, WGMs; $150 deducted from
prize. US players with current or former FIDE ratings of 2200/over:
$225 mailed by 3/27 or online by 4/2, $250 at site. Foreign FIDE rated
players: $175 mailed by 3/27 or online by 4/2, $200 at site, Others: $375
mailed by 3/27 or online by 4/2, $400 at site. U2200 through U1400 Sec-
tions EF: 4-day $224, 3-day $223, 2-day $222 mailed by 3/27, $225 online
by 4/2, $250 at site. U1200 Section EF: 4-day $84, 3-day $83, 2-day $82
mailed by 3/27, $85 online by 4/2, $100 at site. U1000 Section EF: $32
mailed by 3/27, $35 online by 4/2, $50 at site. Phone EF: All $5 more
than online EF, 406-896-2038 (entry only, no questions), available only
through 4/2. Online late entry after 4/2: available until 2 hours before
your first game, same price as entry at site. EF $100 less to rated sen-
iors 65/over in U2200 through U1400. Special 1 year USCF membership
with magazine if paid with entry: Online at chesstour.com, Adult $30, Young
Adult $20, Scholastic $15. Mailed, phoned or paid at site, Adult $40, Young
Adult $30, Scholastic $20. No checks at site, credit cards OK. Re-entry:
$100, no re-entry from Open Section to Open Section. 5-day schedule
(Open only): Reg. ends Wed 6 pm, rds. Wed. 7 pm, Thu 12 & 7, Fri 11 &
6, Sat 11 & 6, Sun 10 & 4:30. 4-day schedule (U2200-U1200): Reg. ends
Thu 6 pm, rds. Thu 7 pm, Fri 11 & 6, Sat 11 & 6, Sun 10 & 4:30. 3-day
schedule (U2200-U1200): Reg. ends Fri 10 am, rds Fri 11, 2:30 & 6, Sat
11 & 6, Sun 10 & 4:30. 2-day schedule (U2200-U1200): Reg. ends Sat.
9am, rds Sat. 10, 12, 2, 3:45 & 6, Sun 10 & 4:30. 4-day, 3-day, & 2-day
merge & compete for same prizes. Under 1000 schedule: Reg. ends Sat.
9 am, rds Sat 10, 12, 2 & 3:45, Sun 10, 12 & 2. Byes: NOTE CHANGE:
Half point byes OK all rounds, limit 4 byes, Open Section must commit
before rd 2, other sections before rd 4. Bring sets, boards, clocks if
possible- none supplied. HR: $98-98-123-123, 215-627-1200, reserve by
3/21 or rate may increase. Parking: Hotel has valet parking only, with
a special chess rate of $30/day. Many parking lots nearby charge much
less, with rates lowest on the weekend. Gateway Garage, 1540 Vine St
(1 block from Sheraton Hotel) is about $5/day Sat & Sun, $18/day other
days. Car rentals: Avis, 800-331-1600, use AWD #D657633 or reserve
car online at chesstour.com. Ratings: FIDE used for Open, USCF April
list for U2200 & below; note that ratings after the April list (see above)
may result in a $1500 prize limit. Foreign player ratings: For U2200 and
below, usually100 points added to FIDE, 100 to FQE, 100/more to most
other foreign, no points added to CFC, PR or Jamaica. Some foreign rat-
ings not accepted for U2000 or below. Highest of multiple ratings usually
used. Players who fail to disclose foreign or FIDE ratings may be expelled.
Special rules: Players must submit to a search for electronic devices
if requested by Director. In round 3 or after, players with scores of 80%
or over and their opponents may not use headphones, earphones or cell
phones or go to a different floor of the hotel without Director permission.
Ent: Continental Chess, Box 249, Salisbury Mills, NY 12577. Questions:
www.chesstour.com, DirectorAtChess.US, 845-496-9658. You may request
lowest possible section if April rating unknown. $15 service charge for
6th annual PHILADELPHIA OPEN
April 4-8 (Open), 5-8, 6-8 or 7-8 (other sections) - Easter weekend at Loews
Prizes $80,000 based on 500 paid entries, $60,000 minimum, IM and GM norms possible!
Open Section: 9SS, 40/90, SD/30,
inc/30. U2200 to U1200: 7SS, 40/2, SD/1,
d/5 (3-day option, rds 1-2 G/75, d/5; 2-day,
rds 1-4 G/40, d/5). U1000: 7SS, G/40, d/5.
Loews Hotel, 1200 Market, rooms $98-
98-123-123, 215-627-1200, reserve by 3/21.
Parking: Loews valet $30. Gateway
Garage, 1540 Vine (near Sheraton Hotel) is
about $5/day Sat & Sun, $18/day other days.
8 sections. Prizes based on 500 paid
entries, else proportional (seniors, re-entries,
GMs, IMs, WGMs count half, U1200 40%,
U1000 15%), with 75% min. guaranteed.
Open: $7000-4000-2000-1000-800-700-
600-500-400-400, clear/tiebreak 1st $200,
FIDE U2400/Unr $2000-1000. FIDE rated.
U2200, U2000, U1800 Sections: $5000-
2500-1200-800-600-500-400-300-300-300.
U1600, U1400 Sections: $4000-2000-
1000-700-500-400-300-200-200-200.
U1200 Section: $1500-800-500-300-
200-200-200-100-100-100.
U1000 Section: $400-200-100, trophies
to first 5, top U800, U600, U400, Unr.
Prize limits: 1) If official rating 4/11-
3/12 or post-event rating posted 4/4/11-
4/4/12 is over 30 pts above section max, limit
$1500. 2) Unr limit $200 U1000, $400
U1200, $800 U1400, $1200 U1600, $1600
U1800, $2000 U2000. 3) Under 26 games
limit $300 U1000, $800 U1200, $1500
U1400, $2500 U1600.
Open entry fee: GM/IM/WGM free;
$150 fromprize. Current/past FIDE2200+,
$225 mailed by 3/27 or online by 4/2, $250 at
site. Foreign FIDE, $175 mailed by 3/27 or
online by 4/2, $200 at site. Others, $375
mailed by 3/27 or online by 4/2, $400 at site.
U2200 to U1400 Section: 4-day $224, 3-
day $223, 2-day $222 mailed by 3/27, all
$225 online by 4/2, $250 to 2 hrs before rd 1
or at site. U1200 Section: 4-day $84, 3-day
$83, 2-day $82 mailed by 3/27, $85 online by
4/2, $100 at site. U1000 Section: $32 mailed
by 3/27, $35 online by 4/2, $50 at site.
Phonedentry: $5 more than online entry.
EF $100 less to seniors 65/over in
U1400-U2200. Re-entry(except Open) $100.
.
5-day Open schedule: Reg. ends Wed 6
pm, rds. Wed 7 pm, Thu 12 noon & 7 pm, Fri
11 am & 6 pm, Sat 11 & 6, Sun 10 & 4:30.
4-day: Reg. ends Thu 6 pm, rds. Thu 7
pm, Fri 11 & 6, Sat 11 & 6, Sun 10 & 4:30.
3-day: Reg. ends Fri 10 am, rds. Fri 11,
2:30 & 6, Sat 11 & 6, Sun 10 & 4:30.
2-day U2200-U1200: Reg. ends Sat 9 am,
rds Sat 10, 12, 2, 3:45 & 6, Sun 10 & 4:30.
2-day U1000: Reg. ends Sat. 9 am, rds Sat
10, 12, 2, 3:45 & 6, Sun 10 & 4:30.
Half pt bye OKall, limit 4 (2 in last 4 rds).
Open must commit before rd 2, others rd 4.
All: FIDE ratings used for Open, USCF
April for others. Unofficial ratings usually
used if otherwise unrated. Bring set, board,
clock if possible - none supplied. USCF
membership required; see Chess Life or
chesstour.com for special dues rates. JGP.
Entry: chesstour.com or Continental
Chess, Box 249, Salisbury Mills NY 12577.
Optional entry form faces inside back cover.
$15 service charge for refunds. Advance
entries posted at chesstour.com.
refunds. Advance entries will be posted at chesstour.com. Chess Mag-
net School JGP.
Apr. 6-8, Nevada
12 Annual Reno-Larry Evans Memorial (formerly Far West Open)
OPEN.6SS,40/2,20/1,G/1/2. Sands Regency Hotel/Casino, 345 N. Arling-
ton Ave., Reno, NV 89501.1-866-386-7829 or (775) 348-2200. $$21,000
b/250. $$14,000 Gtd. (Prizes 1-10 in Open Section Gtd. plus 1/2 of all
other prizes). 5 Sections. Open (2000 & above) EF: $137, (1999 &
below = $151) (GMs & IMs free but must enter by (3/10) or pay late fee)
.$$2,000-1,200-1000-700-500-400-300-300-300,300, (2399/below)-
$1,000, (2299/below)- $1,000,(2199/below) -$1000-500-300-200 (If a tie
for 1st then a playoff for $100 out of prize fund plus trophy). Sec.A(1800-
1999) EF: $136; $$1,000-500-400-300-200-100-100-. Sec.B (1600-1799)
EF: $135; $$900-500-400-300-200-100-100. Sec.C (1400-1599) EF:
$134; $$700-500-400-300-200-100-100. Sec.D/under (1399-below)
EF: $133; $$600-400-300-200-100-100-100; Top Senior (65+) -$200;
Club Champ.-$400-200. ALL: Entries must be postmarked by 3/10 or pay
late fee-$11 until 3/31 (do not mail after 3/31), $22 at site. All classes
have trophies 1st 3rd. Unrated players are free entry but not eligible
for cash prizes- must join USCF for 1 full year thru this tournament. 1st
Unrated = trophy + 1 yr. USCF Mem. $10 discount to Seniors (65+
yrs.).Players may play up. Provisionally rated players may only win 1/2
of 1st place money. CCA ratings may be used. Note: pairings not changed
for color unless 3 in a row or a plus 3 and if the unlikely situation occurs
3 colors in a row may be assigned. SIDE EVENTS: Thurs. (4/05) 6-
7:15pm Lecture by IM John Donaldson (FREE); 7:30pm- GM Alexander
Ivanov - Simul ($15); 7:30pm-Blitz (5 Min) tourney ($20) 80% entries =
Prize Fund. Sat. (4/07) (3-4:30pm) Free Game/Position Analysis - IM John
Donaldson. ALL REG: (4/05) 5-10pm, (4/06) 9-10am. RDS: (Fri) 12-7, (Sat)
10-6, (Sun) 9:30-4:30. Byes available any round (if requested by Rd.1).
ENT: make checks payable and send to: SANDS REGENCY (address
listed above), postmarked by 3/10. $11 late fee if postmarked after
3/10 and before 3/31. Do not mail after 3/31 or email after 4/03. $22
late fee at site. HR: (Sun-Thurs. $27!) (Fri. & Sat. $47!) + tax.1-866-386-
7829 mention (Code) CHESS405 (Reserve by 3/26/12) to get Chess
rate. INFO: Jerry Weikel, 6578 Valley Wood Dr., Reno, NV 89523, (775)
747-1405, wackyykl@aol.com or check out our website at: www.reno
chess.org/fwo. To verify entry check website. FIDE. Chess Magnet
School JGP.
Apr. 12, New York
10 Grand Prix Points Tonight!
4-SS, G/25 + td/5 or G/30 + td/0. Chess Center at the Marshall Club,
23 West 10 St., bet. 5-6 Ave., NYC: 212-477-3716. EF: $35, Club membs
$25, GMs free ($20 from prize), specified Greater NY Scholastic prize win-
ners free. $$560 b/32 paid entries (may be limited to 1st 36 to enter),
top 2 Gtd: $$ 200-110-50, Top U2200/unr $105, U2000 $95. Limit 2 byes
(1 bye for U2000), commit by 8:15. Reentry $15. CCA ratings may be used.
Class pairings OK rd. 4. Reg ends 10 min before game. Rds. 7-8:15-9:30-
10:45 pm. Phone entry often impossible!
Apr. 14-15, Missouri
Saint Louis Open
5/SS, G/120. Chess Club & Scholastic Center of Saint Louis, 4657 Mary-
land Ave., Saint Louis, MO 63108. Free entries for GMs and IMs. EF: $60,
$50 for annual members of the club if registered by 4/13. Two Sections:
Open & U2000. Prize Fund: $4,050 UNCONDITIONALLY GUARANTEED!!
Open: $750-$500-$325-$225-$150. Under 2200-$300-$200-$100. FIDE.
Under 2000 Section: $400-$250-$200. U1800: $225-$175. U1400: $150-
$100. Winner of each Section qualifies for the 2013 Club Championship.
Reg.: 9-9:45. Rds.: Saturday 10, 2:30, 7. Sunday 10, 2:30. Two half point
byes available if declared before Round 2. MCA Membership required from
$5. OSA. Ent: 4657 Maryland Ave., Saint Louis, MO 63108, or online at
saintlouischessclub.org Info: 314-361-CHESS, info@saintlouischess
club.org. Chess Magnet School JGP.
Apr. 14-15, Virginia
Kingstowne Chess Festival - 10th Annual!
6450 S. Van Dorn St., Alexandria, VA 22315. 4 Sections: Open (FIDE-
rated): 4SS, 40/100 SD/60 d/5. EF: $50 if received by 4/11, $65 at site.
If joining USCF for 1st time, USEF: $94 if received by 4/11, $109 at site.
Prizes $$1,000G: $400-250-125. U1800-U1600-Unr. each $75. Rds.:
11-5, 10-4. Amateur (U1800-Unr.): 5SS, G/100 d/5. EF: $20 if received
by 4/11, $35 at site. If joining USCF for 1st time, USEF: $64 if received
by 4/11, $79 at site. Prizes $$500 b/32: $180-100-70. U1600-U1400-
Unr. each $50. No unrated may win more than $140. Rds.: 11-3-7,
11:30-4. Booster (U1600-Unr): 5SS, G/100 d/5. EF: $15 if received by
4/11, $30 at site. If joining USCF for 1st time, USEF: $59 if received by
4/11, $74 at site. Prizes $$370 b/32: $150-80-50. U1400-U1200-Unr. each
$30. No unrated may win more than $100. Rds.: 11-3-7, 11:30-4. Novice
(U1400-Unr): 6SS, G/75 d/5. EF: $10 if received by 4/11, $25 at site.
If joining USCF for 1st time, USEF: $54 if received by 4/11, $69 at site.
Prizes $$285 b/32: $100-70-40. U1200-U1000-Unr. each $25. No unrated
may win more than $80. Rds.: 11-1-4-7, 12:30-4. All: One half-point bye
allowed in Open, two in other sections. Last round bye must be requested
by end of section's play Sat. and irrevocable. Drawing before start of last
round for Titanic trilogy: DVDs of A Night to Remember, Titanic (1953),
and Titanic (1996) for 100th anniversary of sinking. Reg.: 8:30-10:15. Ent
(checks payable to): Don W. Millican, P.O. Box 2902, Springfield, VA
22152. Opening ceremony 10:45. FIDE. W. Chess Magnet School JGP.
Apr. 15, Massachusetts
22nd Massachusetts G/60 Championship
4-SS, G/60 d/5. Best Western Royal Plaza Hotel, 181 Boston Post Road
West, Marlboro, MA (I-495, exit 24B, Rt. 20W, one mile from exit). 508-
460-0700 or 888-543-9500. $$ 2,000 b/80 paid entries, 75% G. 5 sects.
Open Section: $300-150, Top U2200 $150. Under 2000 Section: $250-
125. Under 1750 Section: $250-125. Under 1500 Section: $200-100,
Top U1350 $75. Under 1200 Section: $125-75, Top U1000 $75. Unrated
prize limits: $75 in U1200, $100 in U1500, $150 in U1750, $200 in
U2000. EF: $34 if postmarked by 4/10 or online by 4/13, $40 at site. $10
discount to unrated and to players in U1200 Section. GMs and IMs free.
Reg.: 8:30-9:30 a.m. Rds.: 10-1-3:30-6. Other: Bye 1-3 with entry, limit
1. MACA memb. req. for Mass. residents ($12 adult, $6 jr. U18, add $8
for Chess Horizons subscription). Ent: Bob Messenger, 4 Hamlett Dr., Apt.
12, Nashua, NH 03062 or online (PayPal) at www.MassChess.org. Make
checks payable to MACA. Info: (603) 891-2484 or send email to
info@masschess.org. NS. W.
Apr. 20-22 or 21-22, Iowa
6th Annual Okoboji Open, Reserve (U1600) & Scholastics (K-12)
Arrowwood Resort & Conference Center, 1405 Highway 71 S, Okoboji, IA
51355. In 3 Sections. Okoboji Open: 5SS, Game/120 (2 games at G/90
if playing in 2 day option), EF: $50 if registered by 4/13/2012, $60 on site.
Jr. and Sr. ($40 if pre-registered), GM's and IM's free entry. $$b/30
(top 3 guaranteed): $325+T-250-150. Experts/Class A/Class B: $100-
$60 each; Class C and below $50. State membership required, other states
accepted. 2 day round times: April 21: 9-1-4:30. April 22: 9-2:30. 3 day
round times: April 20: 6:00. April 21: 9-4:30; April 22. 9-2:30 (2 and 3
day options merge after round 2). On Site Reg: 4/20 5:00-5:45, 4/21 8:00-
8:45. Okoboji Reserve: 5SS, 2 games at G/90 (4/21 (9:00-1:00), 3
games at G/120, Open to 1599 & under. EF: $40 if registered by
4/13/2011, $50 on site. $$b/20: $125+T-80-60. Class D: $60 - $30; Class
E: $30; Class F/Unrated $30. Rounds: April 21: 9-1-4:30 April 22: 9-2:30
On Site Reg: 4/21 8:00-8:45. Okoboji Scholastics (K-4 and K-12)
4/21/2011: 5SS, Game 30, EF: $10. Prizes: Trophies to first place,
medals to second and third (K-4 and K-12). On Site Reg only 8:00-8:30.
Rounds: 8:45, 10, 11:30, 4 & 5 ASAP. ALL: 1 half point bye per player
allowed if requested in advance. Advance Registration: Jodene Kruse,
934 6th St., Sibley, IA 51249. INFO: Jodene Kruse, sibley@fiorechess.org.
HR: $89 if reserved by April 3rd, 1-800-727-4561. NS. NC. SIDE EVENT:
IM John Bartholomew will be giving a lecture/simul on 4/20 at 4PM, Simul
cost $10, lecture $5 (free to players). Chess Magnet School JGP for
main event.
Apr. 20-22, Kentucky
4th Annual WKU Open
5 SS, G/120, 2-day event. Western Kentucky University Campus, 1906 Col-
lege Heights Blvd., Bowling Green, KY 42101 (www.hilltopperchess.net).
EF: $70 (by 4/14; GM/IM free entry; College $35), $75 on site. Prizes:
$5,000 b/75 ($3,000 gtd); GM/IM & college = half entry. In 6 sections:
1st-5th place: $625, 475, 250, 175, 110; Class A $225, 175, 125, 75, 75;
Class B $225, 175, 125, 75, 75; Class C $225, 175, 125, 75, 75; Class D
$165, 140, 125, 70, 70; Class E and below $165, 140, 125, 70, 70; Unrated
$125, 75. Unrated in any section can only win unrated prizes. Sections
under 8 players will be combined. Rds.: Sat. 10-2:30-7; Sun. 10-2:30. Side
12th Annual Reno
- Larry Evans Memorial Open -
(Formerly Far West Open)
At the Sands Regency Casino & Hotel - Reno, NV
A Weikel Tournament
krII 68, 2012 F.I.0.. 8ated
$21,000 (b/250) $14,000 Guaranteed
Entry Fee $137 or less 40/2 - 20/1 G
- Rooms $27/$47 While they last!
Thursday April 5th
Free Lecture by IM John Donaldson - 6 pm
Simul ($15) by GM Alexander Ivanov - 7:30 pm
Blitz (5 min.) Tourney - $20 - 7:30 pm
See TLA on page ___

NATIONAL
OPEN
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OPEN
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JUNE 14 5:00 P.M.
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Tournament Life
Event: SOKY G/10 Championship. Fri 4/20. 5 SS, G/10. EF: $15 (by
4/14; discount: G/10 + Open = $75; College = $45 by 4/14). Prizes
(b/25): $250, $150, $75, $25. Bring your own clocks. Rds.: 7 pm then ASAP.
Side Event: SOKY Scholastic Chess Championship. Sat only 4/21. 5 SS,
G/30. USCF rated. Prizes: top 3 overall winners in 9-12 will receive WKU
Academic Scholarships (1) Full tuition and fees annual scholarship, (2)
$3,000 annual room and board scholarship, (3) $500 annual book schol-
arship (conditions apply, see website for details); Trophies to top five teams
in each section, and top 8 individuals in each section. SECTIONS: High
School (k-12), Jr. High (k-8), Elementary (k-5), Primary (k-3, & k-1). EF:
$15 by 4/14, $25 on site. Reg.: Sat. 4/21 8-9 am or online by 4/14. Rds.:
10 am, 2-5 ASAP. Location: Warren South High School, 8140 Nashville Rd.,
Bowling Green, KY 42101. Side Event: Friends and Family Tournament.
Sat. 4/21 only. 5 SS, G/30. Non-rated. EF: $8. Reg/Rds/Location: see
scholastic. Prizes: Trophies to top 3 individuals in sections: Adult (18+),
Seniors (50+), High-school (k-12), Primary (k-1). Trophies to top ten in
sections: Jr. High (k-8), Elementary (k-5), Primary (k-3). Hotel Rates: Must
mention "WKU Chess" for special rate: News Inn $49/room 3160
Scottsville Rd., Bowling Green, KY-42104; Tel: 270-781-3460 (only 20
rooms available so reserve early!). Overflow: Country Inn & Suites
$79/room includes hot breakfast (behind News Inn). Byes: 1/2 point each
(limit 1), must commit by 2nd rd. Mail EF to: Dr. Dale Rigby, c/o WKU Chess
Club, 110 A Cherry Hall, 1906 College Heights Blvd., Bowling Green, KY
42101. Chief TD: Chris Prosser. For more info: Samuel J. Hunt (918) 809
6278, hilltopperchess@live.com, www.hilltopperchess.net. Chess Mag-
net School JGP for Main Event.
Apr. 21, New Hampshire
New Hampshire Quick Chess Championship (QC)
Now in a new location! 8SS, GAME/25 Delay/3. Holiday Inn Portsmouth,
300 Woodbury Ave., Portsmouth, NH 03801. EF: $20 postmarked by 14
April, $25 at site. Memb. Req'd: $8, Juniors $6. OSA. $$GTD: $200-100.
U2000 $100. U1600 $100. Plaque to top finishing NH resident. Reg.: 9:00-
9:45. Rds.: 10-11-1-2-3-4-5:30-6:30. Byes available any round, limit two.
Must be requested before round four. ENT: Alex Relyea, 49 Technology
Dr. #89, Bedford, NH 03110. INFO: Alex Relyea relyea@operamail.com.
HR: (603) 431-8000. www.relyeachess.com. NS. W.
Apr. 21, Tennessee
Bluff City Open
4SS, G/60. Greater Memphis Chess Center, 5796 Shelby Oaks Dr., Suite
11, Memphis, TN 38134. $500 prizes GTD. 3 Sections: Open,
Amateur(U1600) and Scholastic(U1200). Prizes: Open: 1st $200, 2nd
$100. Amateur: $125, $75. Scholastic: Trophies to top 3. Open and Ama-
teur EF: $30 ($25 for MCC and GMCC members). Scholastic EF: $15 ($12
for members). Rounds: 10-1-3-5. Registration 04/21: 8:30-9:30am. Fri-
day night side event: Bluff City Blitz. G/5, 5 rds, double-swiss. 1st round
at 7:30pm. EF: $12 ($10 for members). Prizes: 1st 35%, 2nd 20%.
Entries: Memphis Chess Club Inc., PO Box 17864, Memphis, TN 38187-
0864, www.memphischess.com, gpylant@gmail.com.
Apr. 21, Wisconsin
Hales Corners Challenge XV
4SS, G/60. 2 Sections: Open & Reserve (under 1600). Wyndham Milwau-
kee Airport Hotel, 4747 S. Howell Ave., Milwaukee, 414-481-8000.
(mention Southwest Chess Club for $79 room rate). EF: $35-Open, $25-
Reserve, both $5 more after 4/18. Comp EF for USCF 2200+. $$ Open
=1st-$325 (guaranteed), 2nd-$175 (guaranteed), A-$100, B & Below-$75;
$$ Reserve =1st-$100, 2nd-$75, D-$50, E & Below-$40. Reg.: 8:30-9:30.
Rds.: 10-1-3:30-6. Entries to: Allen Becker, N112 W17033 Vista Court,
Apt. D, Germantown, WI 53022; allenbecker@wi.rr.com. Questions to TD:
Robin Grochowski, (414) 861-2745 (cell).
Apr. 21-22, California, Northern
7th Annual Frank Doyle Open
Frank Doyle Open Exchange Bank, 444 Aviation Blvd., Santa Rosa, CA
95401. 4 round Swiss, G/120. In 3 Sections, Open: $$GTD: $250-175.
Reserve: Open to 1899 & under. $$GTD: $200-125. Booster: Open to 1499
& under. $$GTD: $150-100. Unr. must play in Booster Section. Unrated
players winning prizes will only receive half of the prize. ALL: EF: $35
advance until 4/18, $45 at site. Reg.: 04/21 8:30am-9:30am. Rds.: Sat
10,3; Sun 10,3. ENT: Paul Stagnoli, 4233 Kintyre Rd., Santa Rosa, CA 95409-
4127. INFO: (707)478-4385 paulgs@sonic.net. No phone or e-mail
entries. Bring equipment, none provided. No Cell phones allowed.
NS. NC. W. Chess Magnet School JGP.
Apr. 27-29 or 28-29, Florida
19th Space Coast Open
5SS, Top section FIDE rated at G/100+Increment 30. Lower sections
G/120+Delay 5. (2-day Rd. 1 for all sections G/60+Delay 5). Double-
Tree Hotel Cocoa Beach Oceanfront, 2080 North Atlantic Avenue. (Hwy
A1A), Cocoa Beach, FL. $$10,000 b/165 pd., 72% Gtd. 6 Sections: Mas-
ter/Expert: $1200+trophy-700-300, U2400 $600+trophy, U2200
$600+trophy-300. Class A: $600+trophy-300-200. Class B: $600+tro-
phy-300-200. Class C: $600+trophy-300-200. Class D: $600+trophy-
300-200. U1200: $600+trophy-300-200, U1000 $300+trophy-200, U800
$200+trophy-100, trophies to top Brevard County scholastics players in
K-3, K-5, K-8, K-12, book to plus score not winning other prize. All:
Rated players may play up one class only. Unr. may play in Master or
U1200. Unr. limited to $100 prize unless place prize in Master. Prizes for
1st-3rd brilliancy and biggest upset rds 1-4. EF: $79 via mail or on-line
by 4/20, $90 on-line by 4/26 or at site (no credit cards); $20 less if Unr.
or under age 18. Re-entry $40 by round 3 (1/2 point Byes for earlier
rounds). GM/IM free entry available on-line until 3/31, else $80 from prize.
Special EF for Brevard County students in any section: $20 on-line by 4/20,
$25 on-line by 4/26 or at site (counts as 1/4 entry for based on prize fund).
Reg.: ends 1 hr. before 1st rd. Rds.: Rd. 1 8pm Fri (2-day 10am Sat. at
G/60), Rds. 2-5 Sat. 1-7, Sun. 9-2:30. Side events: Space Coast Open Blitz.
4-SS (2 games/Rd), G/5. Prizes: Cash prizes based on entries. EF: $10.
Rds Sat. 12:30-6:30, Sun. 8:30-2:00. (i.e., Blitz rounds are prior to rounds
2-5 of main tournament). Other events: see sco2012.eventbrite.com. HR:
$99-99-109-109, $129 oceanfront (King only), $129 suite ($139 triple/quad
occupancy). 800-552-3224 or 321-783-9222, ask for Space Coast Chess
rate, reserve by 4/7. Ent: Space Coast Chess Foundation, c/o Harvey Ler-
man, 921 N. Thistle Ln., Maitland, FL 32751 or sco2012.eventbrite.com.
Info only: Peter Dyson 321-452-9863, peter200@modusoperandi.com.
FIDE, W. Chess Magnet School JGP.
Apr. 27-29 or 28-29, Maryland
2012 Maryland Open
5SS, 40/100, SD/45 inc/30, (Rnd 1 G/90 inc/30) (2-day schedule: rds 1-
2 G/45 inc/30) U1200 G/120 d/5(2-day option, rds 1-2 G/60 d/5).
Rockville Hilton, 1750 Rockville Pike, Rockville, MD 20852, 301-468-1100.
All prizes guaranteed. 4 sections: Open FIDE: $1200-600-300-200-100,
top U2201 $125, top Life Master $100. Amateur Section (U2000):
$800-400-250-125-75, top U1800 $125, top 1st Cat $90. Reserve Sec-
tion (U1600): $650-350-200-100-75, top U1400 $110, top 3rd Cat $80.
Novice (U1200): $500-250-150-100-75, top U1000 $100, top unrated $70.
Unrated may not win over $200 in U1200 or $300 in U1600. A free con-
tinental breakfast for participants will be provided on Sunday
morning. We will optionally text your pairings to your cell phone. EF: $60
by 4/12 mail or online, $70 by 4/24 online, $75 by 4/26 online, and $80
at the door. Special EFs: GM&IMs free; $60 deducted from prize. Spe-
cial HR: $99, ($25 EF discount if staying in hotel) may not be avail after
4/12, free Sat. night room for GMs registering early. Open, U2000, &
U1600 3-day schedule: Reg ends Fri 7 pm, rds Fri 8, Sat 11&6, Sun 9&3.
Open, U2000, & U1600 2-day schedule: reg ends Sat 10am rds 11-2:15-
6, 9-3 U1200 3-day schedule Reg. ends Fri 7 pm, rds Fri 8, Sat 11&3:30,
Sun 9&1:00 U1200 2-day schedule Reg. ends Sat 10am rds 11, 1:15 & 3:30,
Sun 9&1:00. Ent: MCA, c/o Michael Regan, 1827 Thornton Ridge Rd., Tow-
son, MD 21204. Online entry and link to room reservations at: http://
themdopen.com. Questions: mregan@baltimorechess.org. Chess Mag-
net School JGP.
Apr. 27-29 or 28-29, Vermont
23rd annual Vermont Resort Open
5SS, 30/90, SD/1, d/5 (2-day option, rds 1-2 G/60, d/5). Holiday InnRut-
land/Killington, 476 Holiday Drive (near intersection US-4 and US-7),
Rutland, VT 05701. Free shuttleto Amtrak, bus terminal or Rutland Air-
port. Free parking, free wireless, heated pool, whirlpool, exercise room;
restaurants within easy walking distance. $2000 guaranteed prizes.
In 3 sections. Open: $400-200-150, top Under 2010/Unr $220-110.
Under 1810: $300-150-80, top Under 1610 $160-80, no unrated may win
over $150. Under 1410: $100-50, trophies to first 3, top Under 1210,
Under 1010, Under 810, Unrated. Top 2 sections EF: 3-day $68, 2-day
$67 if check mailed by 4/20, all $69 online at chesstour.com by 4/25, $75
phoned to 406-896-2038 by 4/25 (entry only, no questions), $80 at site.
Under 1410 Section EF: All $40 less than top 2 sections EF. All: No checks
at site, credit cards OK. Special 1 year USCF dues with paper maga-
zine if paid with entry. Online at chesstour.com, Adult $30, Young Adult
$20, Scholastic $15. Mailed, phoned or paid at site, Adult $40, Young Adult
$30, Scholastic $20. Re-entry $40, not available in Open. GMs & IMs free;
$60 deducted from prize. 3-day schedule: Reg. ends Fri 6:30 pm, rds
Fri 7, Sat 11 & 5, Sun 9 & 2:15. 2-day schedule: Reg ends Sat 10:30 am,
rds. Sat 11, 2 & 5, Sun 9 & 2:15. Half point byes OK all, limit 2; must
commit before rd 2. HR: $89-89, 802-775-1911, reserve by 4/13. Car
rental: Avis, 800-331-1600, AWD #D657633, or reserve car online at
chesstour.com. Unofficial uschess.org ratings usually used if other-
wise unrated. Ent: Continental Chess, PO Box 249, Salisbury Mills, NY
12577. DirectorAtChess.us, chesstour.com, 845-496-9658. $15 service
charge for refunds. Advance entries posted at chesstour.com. Chess
Magnet School JGP.
Apr. 28, Virginia
2012 Walter Muir Memorial
3-Round Swiss Sytem Game/90 w/5 second delay. St. Johns Lutheran
Church, 4608 Brambleton Ave. SW, Roanoke, VA 24018. GUARANTEED
PRIZES: Top Section: $125-$100-$75. Additional Sections: If Octagonals,
Each is guaranteed $125-$100, If Hexagonals, Each is guaranteed $100-
$75, If Quads, Each is guaranteed $100. ENTRY FEE: If received by April
27, $30.00. At site, $40.00. REGISTRATION: 6-9 pm on 4/27; 8:30-9:30
am on 4/28. ROUNDS: 10-2-6. BYES: One only per tournament; must
request before 1st round begins. ADVANCE ENTRIES: Roanoke Valley
Chess Club, P.O. Box 14143, Roanoke, VA 24038. PHONE: (540) 344-
4446. EMAIL: info@roanokechess.com. WEB PAGE: roanokechess.com.
NS. NC. W.
Apr. 28-29, Missouri
Joplin Benefit Tournament
100% of entry fees will be donated to the Joplin Habitat for Human-
ity to support building for tornado impacted families. 5SS, G/90,d/5.
La Quinta Inn (Room A), 3320 South Rangeline Rd., Joplin, MO 64804. 2
sections: Open, U1600. Sections may be combined for pairing purposes.
$$Gtd. $490. Open: $150-100-60. U1600: $80-60-40. EF: $40 (by 04/27),
$50 on site. Cash only on site. Registration: 8:30-9:45. MCA Member-
ship required from $5.OSA. Rounds: Sat: 10:00, 1:30, 5:00. Sun: 10:00,
1:30. One 1/2 point bye if requested before round 3. Ent: info@joplin
chess.org with cash on-site or mailed to Joplin Chess Club, 2609 New
Hampshire, Joplin, MO 64804. Checks payable to Martin Stahl. HR: $69
plus tax by 3/27, after based on availability. 417-781-0500, mention
Chess Tournament. Info: http://www.joplinchess.org, info@joplinchess.
org or 417-483-1554. Chess Magnet School JGP.
Apr. 28-29 or 29, New York
Marshall April Grand Prix!
4-SS, 30/85d5, SD/1d5. Marshall CC, 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212 477-
3716. EF: $50, members $30. $$625 Gtd: 275-150, U2200/unr. $105,
U2000 $95. Reg. ends 15 min. before round. Rds.: 2 schedules: 2-day,
Rds. 12:30-5:30PM each day; 1-day, (Rds. 1-2 G/25d5) 10-11:15AM-12:30-
5:30PM Sun; both merge rd. 3. Limit 2 byes, request at entry. NO RE-
ENTRY. FIDE (G/30 not FIDE ratable). www.marshallchessclub.org.
A Heritage Event!
May 4-6 or 5-6, Ohio
48th Cincinnati Open
5SS. Hilton Garden Inn, 5200 Natorp Blvd., Mason, OH 45040. Five
Sections: Open, U2200, U1900, U1600, U1300. Time Control: 40/2,
SD/60 d/5; 2-day rds 1&2 G/75 d/5. Prizes: Open: $1,000-750-500-250;
U2200: $700-500-300-150; U1900: $400-300-200-100; U1600: $300-
200-150-100; U1300: $225-150-125-100. Open section prizes guaranteed;
other prizes in the under sections based on 100 total entries for the tour-
nament, else proportional. (No unrated may win more than the third-place
prize amount except in Open.) Entry fee: $95 if mailed/emailed by April
30, 2012; $115 after April 30/onsite. Re-entry $50. Free entry to GMs/IMs
who complete schedule; $95 deducted from prize. Registration: Friday,
May 4 5:00-6:30; Saturday, May 5 9:00-10:30. 3-day schedule: Friday
7:00, Saturday 11:00 and 5:30, Sunday 9:30 and 4:00. 2-day schedule:
Saturday 11:00 and 2:00, then merge with 3-day. Byes: Maximum two
half-point byes, must commit before round 3. HR: $99, group code COT,
reserve by 4/13/2012 or rate may go up; reservations 800-560-7843 or
513-204-6000 or www.cincinnatimason.hgi.com. Bring sets and clocks.
Advance entries: Cincinnati Open, PO Box 499006, Cincinnati, OH
45249-9006 or by email to a.hodge195@gmail.com. Registration form
and complete information at www.Chessinnati.com. Questions: Alan
Hodge 513-697-6930, a.hodge195@gmail.com. Chess Magnet School
JGP.
May 10, New York
10 Grand Prix Points Tonight!
4-SS, G/25 + td/5 or G/30 + td/0. Chess Center at the Marshall Club,
23 West 10 St., bet. 5-6 Ave., NYC: 212-477-3716. EF: $35, Club membs
$25, GMs free ($20 from prize), specified Greater NY Scholastic prizewin-
ners free. $$560 b/32 paid entries (may be limited to 1st 36 to enter),
top 2 Gtd: $$ 200-110-50, Top U2200/unr $105, U2000 $95. Limit 2 byes
(1 bye for U2000), commit by 8:15. Reentry $15. CCA ratings may be used.
Class pairings OK rd. 4. Reg ends 10 min before game. Rds. 7-8:15-9:30-
10:45 pm. Phone entry often impossible!
VERMONT RESORT OPEN, April 27-29 or 28-29
NEW SITE! Holiday Inn Rutland/Killington, Vermonts most upscale
Holiday Inn, near intersection of US-4 and US-7. Free parking, free wireless,
heated pool, exercise room, free shuttle to Amtrak, bus terminal or Rutland
Airport, restaurants within walking distance. $2000 guaranteed prizes. See
Grand Prix this issue for full details.
Due to a technical error, this TLA was inadver-
tently left out of the Grand Prix and New York
sections:
Mar. 23, New York
Trophies Plus Grand Prix Points: 20 (enhanced)
Bobby Fischer Memorial Speed Chess Tournament! (QC)
9-SS, G/5. Marshall CC, 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. $$G
1525: $500-300-200-100, top U2400/unr, U2200, U2000, U1800:
$50 each, Best Senior born in or before 1952: $100-50, Best Jun-
ior born in or after 1998: $50-25. EF: $25, members $20.
Quick-rated, but higher of regular or quick USCF rating used for
pairings & prizes. Reg. ends 6:45 pm. Rds.: 7-7:30-7:50-8:10-
8:40-9-9:20-9:40-10 pm. Three byes available, request at entry.
www.marshallchessclub.org. This tournament has been made
possible through the generosity of Mr. Paul M. Albert Jr.
May 18-20 or 19-20, New York
20th annual New York State Open
5SS, 30/90, SD/1 (2-day option, rds 1-2 G/60). Tiki Resort (formerly
Howard Johnson), 2 Canada St., Lake George, NY 12845. $$G 3000. In
4 sections. Open: $$ 400-200-150, top Under 2010 $230-120, top Under
1810/Unr $220-110. Senior, open to under 1910 or unrated born before
5/21/62. $$ 300-150-80, top Under 1710 $120-60. Under 1610: $$ 300-
150-80, Under 1410 $120-60, unrated limit $150. Under 1310: $100-50,
trophies to first 3, top U1000, U800, Unr. All: 1 year NYSCA membership
prize to NY residents who are not members. EF: 3-day $78, 2-day $77
mailed by 5/11, both $79 online at chesstour.com by 5/16, $85 phoned
to406-896-2038 by 5/16 (entry only, no questions), $90 at site. No checks
at site, credit cards OK. Entry fee $50 less to all in U1310. Special 1
year USCF dues with magazine if paid with entry- online at chesstour.com,
Adult $40, Young Adult $30, Scholastic $20. Re-entry $40, not available
in Open Section. GMs free, $60 deducted from prize. 3-day schedule:
Reg ends Fri 6:30 pm, rds. Fri 7, Sat 12 & 6, Sun 10 & 3:15. 2-day sched-
ule: Reg ends Sat 11:30 am, rds Sat 12, 3 &, 6, Sun 10 & 3:15. Half point
byes OK all, must commit before rd 2; limit 2 byes (limit 1 bye if under
1810/unr in Open). HR: 65-65 (poolside), 75-75 (regular), call 518-668-
5744 Mon-Fri 9 am-5pm, reserve by 5/5 or rate may increase. Car
rental: Avis, 800-331-1600, use AWD #D657633, or reserve car online
through chesstour.com. Unofficial uschess.org ratings usually used if oth-
erwise unrated. Ent: Continental Chess, Box 249, Salisbury Mills, NY
12577. www.chesstour.com, DirectorAtChess.us, 845-496-9658. $15 ser-
vice charge for refunds. Advance entries posted at chesstour.com. Chess
Magnet School JGP.
May 24-28, 25-28, 26-28 or 27-28, Illinois
21st annual Chicago Open
Open Section, May 24-28: 9SS, 40/2, SD/1, d/5, GM & IM norms pos-
sible, all Open entry fees $100 more than below for US players never rated
2200/over by FIDE. Under 2300 to Under1300, May 25-28, 26-28 or
27-28: 7SS, 40/2, SD/1, d/5 (3-day option, rds 1-2 G/75, d/5; 2-day
option, rds. 1-4 G/40, d/5). Under 1100, (NOTE CHANGE), May 26-28
or 27-28: 7SS, G/90, d/5 (2-day option, rds 1-4 G/40, d/5). Under 900,
May 27-28: 7SS, G/40, d/5. All: No 5 minute time deduction. At Westin
Chicago North Shore Hotel, 601 North Milwaukee Ave., Wheeling, IL
60090 (from Chicago, I-294 north to US-45 north; from Milwaukee, I-94
east to Lake Cook Rd. to US-45 south.) Free parking. Free analysis of your
games by GM John Fedorowicz, beginning two hours after the start of
each 4-day round. Free lectures by GM Fedorowicz 5pm Friday, 9 am each
day Saturday, Sunday, Monday. $100,000 guaranteed prize fund. In 9
sections. Open: $10000-5000-2500-1200-900-700-600-500-400-300,
clear or tiebreak winner bonus $200, top FIDE Under 2500/Unr $2000-
1000. FIDE rated, GM and IM norms possible. Under 2300: $5000-2500-
1200-900-700-600-500-400-300-300. FIDE rated. Under 2100: $5000-
2500-1200-900-700-600-500-400-300-300. Under 1900: $5000-2500-
1200-900-700-600-500-400-300-300. Under 1700: $5000-2500-1200-
900-700-600-500-400-300-300. Under 1500: $4000-2000-1000-800-600-
500-400-400-300-300. Under 1300: $4000-2000-1000-800-600-500-400-
400-300-300. Under 1100: $1500-700-400-300-200-200-100-100. Under
900: $500-300-200, trophies to first 5, top U700, U500, U300, Unrated.
Prize limits: 1) Players with under 26 lifetime games rated through 5/12
list may not win over $800 U1100, $1500 U1300 or $2500 U1500. Games
rated too late for 5/12 list not counted. 2) If official rating 5/11-4/12 or
unofficial post-event rating posted 5/24/11-5/24/12 was more than 30
points over section maximum, prize limit $1500. 3) Unrated (0-3 lifetime
games rated) cannot win over $200 inU900, $400 U1100, $700 U1300,
$1000 U1500, $1500 U1700, $2000 U1900 or $2500 U2100. Unofficial
uschess.org ratings usually used if otherwise unrated. 4) Balance of any
limited prize goes to next player(s) in line. Top 7 sections Mailed EF:
5-day Open $205, 4-day $204, 3-day$203, 2-day $202 mailed by 3/29; 5-
day $225, 4-day $224, 3-day $223, 2-day $222 mailed by 5/16; all $250
at site. No checks at site, credit cards OK. Top 7 sections online EF at
chesstour.com: $207 by 3/29, $227 by 5/21, $250 after 5/21 until 2 hours
before rd 1. Top 7 sections phoned EF at 406-896-2038 (entry only, no
questions): $230 by 5/21 (entry only, no questions). No phone entry
after 5/21. GMs, IMs, WGMs, foreign FMs free in Open; $200 deducted
from prize. All Open Section EF $100 more for US players never rated 2200
or over by FIDE. EF $100 less to seniors age 65/over in top 7 sections.
Under 1100 EF: $85 mailed by 5/16, $87 online at chesstour.com by 5/21,
$100 at site. Under 900 EF: $35 mailed by 5/16, $37 online at
chesstour.com by 5/21, $50 at site. Online or mailed EF $5 less to ICA
members; join at il-chess.org. An ICA Tour Event. Special 1 yr USCF dues
with magazine if paid with entry: Online at chesstour.com, Adult $30, Young
Adult $20, Scholastic $15. Mailed, phoned or paid at site, Adult $40, Young
Adult $30, Scholastic $20. Re-entry: $100, no re-entry from Open to Open.
5-day schedule (Open): Reg. ends Thu 6 pm, rds Thu 7 pm, Fri 12 & 7,
Sat 11 & 6, Sun 11 & 6, Mon 10 & 4:30. 4-day schedule (U2300 to
U1300): Reg. ends Fri 6pm, Rds. Fri 7 pm, Sat 11 & 6, Sun 11 & 6, Mon
10 & 4:30. 3-day schedule (U2300 to U1300): Reg. ends Sat 10 am, Rds.
Sat 11, 2:30 & 6, Sun 11 & 6, Mon 10 & 4:30. 2-day U2300 to U1300
schedule: Reg. ends Sun 9 am, Rds. Sun 10, 12, 2, 3:45 & 6, Mon 10 &
4:30. 4-day, 3-day & 2-day U2300 to U1300 schedules merge & com-
pete for same prizes. 3-day Under 1100 schedule: Reg. Ends Sat. 1 pm,
Rds Sat 2 pm & 6 pm, Sun 10, 2 & 6, Mon 10 & 2. 2-day Under 1100
schedule: Reg. ends Sun 9 am, Rds Sun 10, 12, 2, 3:45 & 6, Mon 10 &
2. 3-day & 2-day U1100 schedules merge & compete for same prizes.
Under 900 schedule: Reg. ends Sun 9 am, rds Sun 10, 12, 2 & 3:45, Mon
10, 12, 2. Byes: OK all, limit 4(limit 2 in last 4 rds), Open must commit
before rd 2, others before rd 4. Hotel rates: $103-103-103-103, 800-937-
8461, 847-777-6500, reserve by 5/11 or rate may increase. Car rental:
Avis, 800-331-1600, AWD #D657633, or reserve car online through
chesstour.com. Foreign player ratings: Usually 100 points added to FIDE,
100 to FQE, 200/more to most other foreign, no pts added to CFC or
Jamaica. Some foreign ratings not accepted for U1900 or below. High-
est of multiple ratings usually used. Players who fail to disclose foreign
or FIDE ratings may be expelled. US player ratings: May official ratings
used; FIDE ratings used for Open Section. Unofficial uschess.org ratings
usually used if otherwise unrated. Special rules: 1) Players must sub-
mit to a search for electronic devices if requested by Director. In round
3 or after, players with scores of 80% or over and their opponents may
not use headphones, earphones, cellphones, or go to a different floor of
the hotel without Director permission. Ent: Continental Chess, Box 249,
Salisbury Mills, NY 12577. Questions: DirectorAtChess.US, 845-496-
9658, www.chesstour.com. You may request lowest possible section
if May rating unknown. $15 service charge for refunds. Advance entries
will be posted at chesstour.com. Chess Magnet School JGP.
May 26-28 or 27-28, California, Northern
Best of the West Class Championship
6SS 30/90 sd/60 (2-day rds 1-3 G/60 merge in rd4). Marriott, 2700 Mis-
sion College Blvd., Santa Clara, CA. Hotel $89. Prize: $17,000 b/264
(2/3rd guaranteed). 6 sections. Open (2200+ FIDE rated 82% Gtd): 2500-
1200-600-200, top u2300 300-100. Expert/A/B/C: 1200-600-300-100-100-
100. D/E/unr: 1000-400-200-100, top u1200 600-300-100. Unr max $300
exc in Open. EF by 5/22: $99. Onsite +$25, Play-up +$20. r/e $40. Econ
Opt: EF-20 & 2/3 calc prize (not avail in Open). GMs/IMs free: prize-EF.
May 2012 Supp, CCA min, & TD disc to place players. Sched: 3-day Reg
Sa 10-11, Rds Sa/Su 11:30-5:30, Mo 10-3:30; 2-day Reg Su 9-9:30, Rds
Su 10-12:30-2:50-5:30, Mo 10-3:30. Max two 1/2-pt byes, commit bef rd
3. Parking $5. Ent: Bay Area Chess, 1639A S. Main St., Milpitas, CA
95035. Rfnd fee $20. Info: BayAreaChess.com/bestwest. E: ask@BayArea
Chess.com. T: 408.786.5515. NS, NC, W. Chess Magnet School JGP.
June 8-10 or 9-10, Connecticut
18th Annual Northeast Open
5SS, 40/2, SD/1 (2-day option, rds 1-2 G/75). Sheraton Hotel (formerly
Holiday Inn Select), 700 Main St., Stamford, CT 06901. Free parking.
$8,000 guaranteed prize fund. In 4 sections. Open: $1000-500-300-200,
U2250 $600300. FIDE. Under 2050: $800-400-300-200, top U1850
$500-250. Under 1650: $700-400-250-150, top U1450 $400-200. Under
1250: $300-150-100, trophy to top U1000, U800, U600, Unrated. Unrated
may not win over $150 in U1250 or $400 in U1650. Top 3 sections EF:
3-day $88.50, 2-day $87.50 if check mailed by 5/30, all $89 online at chess-
tour.com by 6/6, $95 phoned to 406-896-2038 by 6/6 (entry only, no
questions), $100 at site. No mailed credit card entries. U1250 Section
EF: all $40 less than above. No checks at site, credit cards OK. GMs free,
$80 deducted from prize. Mailed EF $3 less to CSCA members. Re-entry
$50; not available in Open Section. Unofficial uschess.org ratings usu-
ally used if otherwise unrated. Special 1 year USCF dues with paper
magazine if paid with entry. Online at chesstour.com, Adult $30, Young Adult
$20, Scholastic $15. Mailed, phoned or paid at site, Adult $40, Young Adult
$30, Scholastic $20. 3-day schedule: Reg ends Fri 6:30 pm, rds. Fri 7
pm, Sat 11 & 6, Sun 10 & 4:15. 2-day schedule: Reg ends Sat 10:30 am,
rds. Sat 11, 2:30 & 6, Sun 10 & 4:15. Bye: all, limit 2; must commit before
rd 2. HR: $94-94, 800-408-7640, 203-358-8400; reserve by 5/25 or rate
may increase. Car rental: Avis, 800-331-1600, AWD D657633, or reserve
car online through chesstour.com. Ent: Continental Chess, Box 249, Sal-
isbury Mills, NY 12577. $15 service charge for refunds. Questions:
www.chesstour.com, 845-496-9658. Advance entries posted at chesstour.
A Heritage Event!
June 9-10, Kentucky
2012 Kentucky Open
5SS, G/90. $$3725 b/120. Registration: 9-9:45am. Rounds: June 9th:
rd 1-3 10am, 2pm, 5:30pm, June 10th: rd 4-5 9am, 2pm. 1 half point bye
available rd 1-4 if noted by rd 2. Entry Fee: $42 in advance, $50 on site.
KCA dues ($8) required for all players. Prizes: Open: $800-400-200-100;
X: 200-100; A: 200-100; U1800: 400-200-100-50; B: 100-50; C: 100-50;
U1400: 200-100-50-25; D: 50-25; E: 50-25; Top Jr. 50. Go to kcachess.org
for more info. Annual meeting of the KCA Board between rds 4 and 5. St.
Francis High School, 233 West Broadway (entrance is on 3rd Street),
Louisville, KY 40202. Contact: Steve Dillard stevedillard@hotmail.com,
502-641-1948 or Daniel Brennan cyberdaniel82@hotmail.com, 502-645-
June 14, Nevada
2012 U.S. Game/10 Championship (QC)
See Nationals.
A Heritage Event!
June 15-17 or 16-17, Nevada
2012 National Open
See Nationals.
June 22-24 or 23-24, Ohio
2012 Columbus Open
5-SS, 30/90, SD/60 (2-day schedule, rd. 1 G/90). ALL PRIZES UNCON-
DITIONALLY GUARANTEED. 3 sections: Open, open to all. G $1200, 800,
500, 400, 300; U2000, $500, 300; Premier, open to 1799/below: $500,
300; U1600: $500, 300; Reserve, open to 1399/below: $500, 300;
U1200: $500, 300. All EF: $85 if recd by 6/16/2011. $95 at site. Free
to Sr. Master/above who complete their schedule. ($85 EF deducted from
winnings.) 3-day schedule: Reg. Ends Fri. 6:30 p.m., Rds: Fri. 7 p.m.;
Sat. 2 p.m., 7:30 p.m.; Sun. 9:30 a.m., 3 p.m. 2-day schedule: Reg. Ends
Sat. 9:30 a.m. Rd 1 at 10 a.m., then merges with 3-day schedule. Re-entry:
$20. Any player who loses Fri. night may re-enter for $20 and loss will
not count in tournament standings! One 1/2-pt. Bye available in Rds 1-
4 (request required prior to Rd 1). Unrated players may play in any
section. $25 upset prize each section. HOTELS: HOLIDAY INN DOWN-
TOWN CAPITAL SQUARE, 175 E. TOWN ST., COLUMBUS, 43215.
(614)221-3281. ROOM RATE: $99.00 plus tax (includes parking). Hotel
remodeled, with expanded playing space, skittles room, many amenities.
Chess rate available through June 1st, code CCC. (note: there is a large
convention in Columbus this weekend; rooms scarce.) Alternative hotel:
The German Village Inn, one mile from playing site, 920 S. High St., (614)
443-6506, $59.00 plus tax. Free parking: Bd. of Ed. Lot between 5th and
6th St., on Capital St., 5 min. walk from site. ENT: C/O Lou Friscoe, 1645
Glenn Ave., Columbus, OH 43212. Inquires: (614) 486-6856 or (614)
228-8111. Entry forms available at our website: www.centralchessclub.
June 29-July 3 (New date), Pennsylvania
9th annual Philadelphia International
9SS, 40/90,SD/30, 30 second increment. Sheraton Philadelphia City
Center Hotel, 17th & Race Sts., Philadelphia, PA 19103. Parking $10/day
chess rate with guest room at Sheraton, $20/day chess rate without guest
room, parking lot next to hotel may be much less than $20. $$G 8000:
$2000-1200-800-700-600-500-400-300, top FIDE under 2300 or unrated
$1000-500. Minimum prize $800 to foreign GMs who complete all games
with no byes (limited to first 5 foreign GMs to enter), $300 to US GMs,
foreign IMs & foreign WGMs (all must complete all games with no byes.)
IM& GM norms possible; FIDE rated. EF: Free to GMs, IMs, WGMs. For-
eign FIDE rated players: $125 mailed by 6/18, $127 online by 6/23, $150
at tmt. USA current or former FIDE 2200/up rated players: $225 mailed
WESTERN AMATEUR
May 4-6 or 5-6, Sheraton Four Points at LA Airport
$10,000 guaranteed prizes for Under 2300 or unrated!
5 round Swiss with 3-day &2-day schedule options. 3-day is 40/2,
SD/1, d/5. 2-day option, rounds 1-2 G/75, d/5, then merges with 3-day.
$89 room rates, $5 parking, free airport shuttle. In 5 sections:
Under 2300 Section: $1000-500-300-200, top U2100 $400-200.
Under 1100 Section: $400-200-100-50, trophy to first 3, top
Under 900, Under 700, Under 500, Unrated.
Unrated limit: $200 in U1100, $300 U1400, or $500 in U1700.
Tournament Life
by 6/18, $227 online by 6/23, $250 at tmt. Others: $325 mailed by 6/18,
$327 online by 6/23, $350 at tmt. All: No checks at site, credit cards OK.
Special 1 year USCF dues with magazine: see World Open. Schedule:
Late reg. ends Fri 10 am, rds Fri through Mon 11 & 6, Tue 11. Two half
point byes available (must commit before rd 2); norm not possible if tak-
ing bye. HR: $99-99, 215-448-2000, reserve by 6/5 or rate may increase.
Bring sets, boards, clocks if possible- none supplied. Ent: Continen-
tal Chess, PO Box 249, Salisbury Mills, NY 12577. $15 service charge for
refunds. Questions: 845-496-9658, www.chesstour.com. Advance entries
posted at chesstour.com. Invitations: GoAtChess.us (use @ instead of
at). Chess Magnet School JGP.
A Heritage Event!
July 4-8, 5-8, 6-8, 2-8, 1-3 or 4-5, Pennsylvania
40th Annual World Open
9SS (Senior Amateur, Women's Championship and Under 13 Booster are
6SS). Sheraton Philadelphia City Center Hotel, 17th & Race Streets,
Philadelphia, PA 19103. For shuttle info from Philadelphia Airport, call 800-
559-2040 or 215-616-5370. Parking $10/day chess rate with guest room
at Sheraton, $20/day chess rate without guest room, Gateway lot at 1540
Vine, 1 block from hotel, is about $5/day Sat & Sun, $18/day other
days. In 13 sections with $250,000 projected prizes, $200,000 mini-
mum. 80% of each prize guaranteed based on 1180 paid entries total in
first 9 listed sections, all prizes guaranteed in Senior Amateur, Womens
Championship, Under 13 Championship, and Under 13 Booster. GMs,
IMs, WGMs, Under 1200, seniors count as 50% entries, Under 900 as
15%entries. Free analysis of your games by GM Sam Palatnik 7/4-8; free
GM lectures 9 am 7/6 & 7/7. Time controls: Open 40/90, SD/30, 30 sec-
ond increment. U2400, U2200, U2000, U1800, U1600, U1400, U1200
40/2, SD/1, d/5 (4-day option rds 1-2 G/75, d/5, 3-day option rds 1-5
G/45, d/5). U900, Under 13 Championship, Under 13 Booster G/65,
d/5. Senior Amateur, Womens Championship 40/2, SD/1,d/5. Open,
9SS, July 4-8 or 2-8: $20000-10000-5000-2500-1200-1000-800-700-600-
500, clear winner bonus $300, top FIDE U2500 $2000-1000. If tie for first,
top 2 on tiebreak play speed game 11:30 pm 7/8 for title & bonus prize.
GM & IM norms possible. FIDE rated. Under 2400/Unr, 9SS, July 4-8,
5-8, 6-8 or 2-8: $13000-7000-3000-1500-1000-900-800-700-600-500, top
U2300/Unr $2000-1000. FIDE rated. Under 2200/Unr, 9SS, July 4-8,
5-8, 6-8 or 2-8: $13000-7000-3000-1500-1000-900-800-700-600-500, top
U2100 (no unr) $2000-1000. FIDE rated. Under 2000/Unr, 9SS, July 4-
8, 5-8, 6-8 or 2-8: $13000-7000-3000-1500-1000-900-800-700-600-500,
top U1900 (no unr) $2000-1000. Under 1800/Unr, 9SS, July 4-8, 5-8,
6-8 or 2-8: $13000-7000-3000-1500-1000-900-800-700-600-500, top
U1700 (no unr) $2000-1000. Under 1600/Unr, 9SS, July 4-8, 5-8, 6-8
or 2-8: $11000-6000-3000-1500-1000-900-800-700-600-500, top 1500 (no
unr) $2000-1000. Under 1400/Unr, 9SS, July 4-8, 5-8 or 6-8: $10000-
5000-2500-1200-1000-800-700-600-500-400, top U1300 (no unr)
$1600-800. Under 1200/Unr, 9SS, July 4-8, 5-8 or 6-8: $5000-2500-
1200-1000-800-700-600-500-400-300, top U1100 (no Unr) $1200-600.
Under 900/Unr, 9SS, July 6-8: $1000-700-500-400-300-300-300, tro-
phies to first 10, top U700, U500, U300, Unrated. Senior Amateur, 6SS,
July 1-3: Open to Under 2010 or unrated born before 7/4/62. $$ 500-
300-200, topU1810 $280-140, top U1610/Unr $250-130, top U1410 $200.
Women's Championship, 6SS, July 1-3: Open to all females. $$ 500-
300-200, top U1800 $240, U1600 $220, U1400 $200, U1200 $180, U1000
$160, trophy to top U800, U600, Unrated. FIDE rated. Under 13 Cham-
pionship, 9SS, July 1-3: Open to all born after 7/3/99. Trophies to top
10, 1st C, D, E, Unrated. Free entry to all CCA tournaments 7/15/12-
12/31/12 to 1st. Under 13 Booster, 6SS, July 4-5: Open to all born after
7/5/99 rated under 1000 or unrated. Trophies to top 10, 1st U800, U600,
U400, U200; free entry to all CCA tournaments 7/15/11-10/31/11 to1st.
Prize limits: 1) Players with under 26 games played as of 7/12 official
list may not win over $600 inU900, $1500 in U1200, $3000 in U1400 or
U1600. Games rated too late for 7/12 list not counted. 2) If official rat-
ing 7/11-6/12 or unofficial post-event rating posted 7/3/11-7/3/12
was more than 30 points over section maximum, prize limit $2000. 3)
Unrated (0-3 lifetime games rated) cannot win over $300 in U900, $800
U1200, $1200 U1400, $1600 U1600, $2000 U1800, or $2500 U2000. 4)
Balance of any limited prize goes to next player(s) in line. Open, U2400,
U2200, U2200, U1800, U1600, U1400 EF: Mailed by 2/15, all 5-day $305,
4-day $304, 3-day $303, 7-day $307. Open has 5-day and 7-day only; no
7-day in U1400 or U1200. Mailed by 5/15 all $10 more, mailed by 6/20
all $20 move. Online at chesstour.com, all $307 by 2/15, $317 by 5/15,
$327 by 6/25, $350 6/26 to 2 hours before round 1 or at site. Phoned
to 406-896-2038, all $330 by 6/25. At site, all $350; no checks, credit cards
OK. GMs free in Open; $200 deducted from prize. IMs, WGMs EF $100
less, $100 deducted from prize. All Open Section EF $100 more for US
players never rated 2200 or over by FIDE. Under 1200 Section EF: all
$150 less. EF for U900 Section, or unrated in U1200 Section: $43
mailed by 6/20, $47 online at chesstour.com by 6/25, $60 online to 2 hours
before round 1 or at site. Rated seniors 65/up in U1400 or over: all
$150 less. Senior Amateur or Women's Championship EF: $76 mailed
by 6/20, $78 online by 6/25, $90 at site. Under 13 Championship or
Under 13 Novice EF: $39 mailed by 6/20, $41 online by 6/25, $50 at site.
No checks at site; credit cards OK. Re-entry: $160, no re-entry from
Open to Open. $20 fee for switching section after 7/3. Special 1 year
USCF dues with magazine if paid with entry: Online at chesstour.com,
Adult $40, Young Adult $30, Scholastic $20. Open to U1200 5-day
schedule: Wed 7 pm, Thu 11 am & 6 pm, Fri 11 am & 6 pm, Sat 11 am
& 6 pm, Sun 10 am & 5 pm. U2400 to U1200 4-day schedule: Thu 11,
2:30 & 6, Fri 11 & 6, Sat 11 & 6, Sun 10 & 5. U2400 to U1200 3-day
schedule: Fri 11, 1:30, 3:30, 6 & 8:30, Sat 11 & 6, Sun 10 & 5. Open to
U1600 7-day schedule: Mon-Wed 7 pm, Thu-Fri 6 pm, Sat 11 & 6, Sun
10 & 5. All above schedules merge & compete for same prizes. Under
900 schedule: Fri 11 am, 2 pm & 5 pm, Sat & Sun each 10 am, 1 pm, 4
pm. Senior Amateur & Women's Championship schedule: Sun 11 am
& 6 pm, Mon 10 & 5, Tue 10 & 4:30. Under 13 Championship sched-
ule: Sun 11 am, 2 pm & 5 pm, Mon 10, 1 & 4, Tue 10, 1 & 4. Under 13
Booster schedule: Wed 11 am, 2 pm & 5 pm, Thu 10, 1 & 4. Half point
byes OK all, limit 4 (limit 2 in last 4 rds), Open must commit before rd
2, others before rd 4. Limit 1 half point bye in 6 round sections. Entries,
re-entries close 1 hour before your first game. Bring sets, boards,
clocks if possible- none supplied. HR: $99-99, 215-448-2000, ask for chess
rate, may sell out about May 31, two night minimum July 6-7. Special
car rental rates: Avis, 800-331-1600, AWD #D657633, or reserve car
online through chesstour.com. Foreign player ratings: Usually 100 pts
added to FIDE (except Open Section), 100 to FQE, 200 or more to most
foreign, no pts added to CFC, Puerto Rico or Jamaica. Some foreign rat-
ings not accepted for U2000 or below. Highest of multiple ratings usually
used. Players who fail to disclose foreign or FIDE ratings may be expelled.
US player ratings: Official July ratings used; FIDE ratings used for Open
Section only. Unofficial uschess.org ratings usually used if otherwise
unrated. Special rules: 1) Players must submit to a search for electronic
devices if requested by Director. In round 3 or after, players with scores
of 80% or over and their opponents may not use headphones, ear-
phones, cell phones or go to a different floor of the hotel without Director
permission. Ent: Continental Chess, Box 249, Salisbury Mills, NY 12577.
Questions: www.chesstour.com, DirectorAtChess.US, 845-496-9658.
You may request lowest possible section if July rating unknown. $15
service charge for refunds. Advance entries will be posted at chesstour.
com. Bring set, board, clock if possible- none supplied. Chess Magnet
School JGP.
July 19-22, 20-22 or 21-22, California, Southern
17th annual Pacific Coast Open
6SS, 40/2, SD/1 (2-day option, rds 1-3 G/45). Under 900 Section, July
21-22 only, G/70. Sheraton Agoura Hills Hotel, 30100 Agoura Rd., Agoura
Hills, CA 91301 (US-101 to Reyes Adobe Road exit). Adjacent to the
Santa Monica Mountains, 26 miles west of Burbank, 12 miles from Mal-
ibu, 28 miles from Ventura. Free parking. Prizes $25,000 based on 230
paid entries (re-entries count half, Under 900 one-third), minimum
$15,000 (60% each prize) guaranteed. In 7 sections. Open: $3000-1500-
700-400, clear or tiebreak win $100 bonus, top U2300/Unr $1600-800.
FIDE. Under 2100: $2000-1000-500-300. Under 1900: $2000-1000-
500-300. Under 1700: $1800-900-500-300. Under 1500: $1500-700-400-
200. Under 1200: $1200-600-300-200. Under 900: $300-200-120-80, tro-
phies to top 7. Unrated may enter any section, with prize limit U2100
$1000, U1900 $800, U1700 $600, U1500 $400, U1200 $200, U900 $100;
balance goes to next player(s) in line. Top 6 sections EF: 4-day $134,
3-day $133, 2-day $132 mailed by 7/10, all $135 online at chesstour.com
by 7/15, $140 phoned by 7/15 (406-896-2038, entry only, no questions),
$150 (no checks, credit cards OK) at tmt. No mailed credit card entries.
GMs free; $120 deducted from prize. Under 900 Section EF: all $90 less
than above. SCCF membership ($18, jrs $10) required for rated South-
ern CA residents. Re-entry $70; not available in Open Section. Unofficial
uschess.org ratings usually used if otherwise unrated. Special 1 year
USCF dues with magazine if paid with entry. Online at chesstour.com, Adult
$30, Young Adult $20, Scholastic $15. Mailed, phoned or paid at site, Adult
21st annual CHICAGO OPEN
May 24-28 (norms possible), 25-28, 26-28 or 27-28, Westin North Shore Hotel
$100,000 PRIZE FUND UNCONDITIONALLY GUARANTEED!
Free lectures & analysis by GM John Fedorowicz, free entry to IMs, WGMs, foreign FMs
Open Section, May 24-28: 9 rounds, 5 days, 40/90,
SD/30, inc/30. 200 GPP.
U2300 to U1300 sections: 7 rds, choice of 3 schedules.
4-day, 5/25-28, 40/2, SD/1, d/5. 3-day, 5/26-28, rds 1-2 G/75,
d/5, then 40/2, SD/1, d/5. 2-day, 5/27-28, rds 1-4 G/40, d/5,
then 40/2, SD/1, d/5. All merge & play for same prizes.
Under 1100 section (note change): 7 rds, 5/26-28, G/90,
d/5 or 5/27-28, rds 1-4 G/40, d/5, then merges with 3-day.
Under 900 section: 7 rds, 5/27-28, G/40, d/5.
Westin Chicago North Shore Hotel, 601 NMilwaukee Ave,
Wheeling IL 60090. Free parking. In 9 sections:
Open: $10000-5000-2500-1200-900-700-600-500-400-
300, clear or tiebreak first $200 bonus, top FIDE U2500/unr
$2000-1000. FIDE rated, GM and IM norms possible.
U2300: $5000-2500-1200-900-700-600-500-400-300-300.
FIDE rated.
U2100: $5000-2500-1200-900-700-600-500-400-300-300.
U1900: $5000-2500-1200-900-700-600-500-400-300-300.
U1700: $5000-2500-1200-900-700-600-500-400-300-300.
U1500: $4000-2000-1000-800-600-500-400-400-300-300.
U1300: $4000-2000-1000-800-600-500-400-300-300-300.
U1100: $1500-700-400-300-200-200-100-100.
U900: $500-300-200, trophies to top 5, others.
Unrated limits: U900 $200, U1100 $400, U1300 $700,
U1500 $1000, U1700 $1500, U1900 $2000, U2100 $2500.
FIDEratings used for Open, May official USCF for others.
Unofficial web ratings usually used if otherwise unrated.
Prize limits: 1) If under 26 lifetime games as of 5/12 list,
limit $800 U1100, $1500 U1300, $2500 U1500. 2) If official
rating 5/11-4/12 or unofficial post-event rating posted 5/24/11-
5/24/12 was more than 30 pts over section max, limit $1500.
5-day schedule (Open only): entries end Thu 6 pm, rds
Thu 7 pm, Fri 12 & 7, Sat 11 & 6, Sun 11 & 6, Mon 10 & 4:30.
4-day Under 2300 to Under 1300: entries end Fri 6, rds
Fri 7, Sat/Sun 11 & 6, Mon 10 & 4:30.
3-dayUnder 2300 to Under 1300: entries end Sat 10 am,
rds Sat 11, 2:30 & 6, Sun 11 & 6, Mon 10 & 4:30.
3-day Under 1100: entries end Sat 1 pm, rds Sat 2 & 6,
Sun 10, 2 & 6, Mon 10 & 2.
2-day Under 2300 to Under 1300: entries end Sun 9 am,
rds Sun 10, 12, 2, 3:45 & 6, Mon 10 & 4:30.
2-day Under 1100: Sun 10, 12, 2, 3:45 & 6, Mon 10 & 2.
Under 900 schedule: Sun 10, 12, 2, 3:45, Mon 10, 12, 2.
Half point byes OK all, limit 4 (2 last 4 rds). Open must
commit before rd 2, others rd 4.
Hotel rates: 1-4 in room $103, 800-937-8461, 847-777-
6500, reserve by 5/11.
Full details: see TLA this issue or chesstour.com. Bring
set, board, clock if possible- none supplied.
$40, Young Adult $30, Scholastic $20. 4-day schedule: Reg Thu to 6:30
pm, rds Thu 7 pm, Fri 7 pm, Sat 11 & 6, Sun 10 & 4:30. 3-day schedule:
Reg. Fri to 11 am, rds Fri 12 & 7, Sat 11 & 6, Sun 10 & 4:30. 2-day sched-
ule: Reg Sat to 9 am, rds Sat 10, 12:45, 3:15 & 6, Sun 10 & 4:30. Under
900 schedule: Reg Sat to 9 am, rds 10, 1:15, 4:30 each day. All sched-
ules: Half point byes OK all, limit 2, Open must commit before rd 2, other
sections before rd 4. HR: $87-87, 818-707-1220, request chess rate,
reserve by 7/5 or rate may increase. Car rental: Avis, 800-331-1600, use
AWD #D657633. Ent: Continental Chess, PO Box 249, Salisbury Mills, NY
845-496-9658. Advance entries posted at chesstour.com. Chess Mag-
net School JGP.
July 20-22 or 21-22, Illinois
5th annual Chicago Class
5SS, 40/2, SD/1 (2-day option, rds 1-2 G/75). Westin Chicago North Shore
Hotel, 601 North Milwaukee Ave., Wheeling, IL 60090 (from Chicago, I-
294 north to US-45 north; from Milwaukee, I-94 to Lake Cook Rd to
US-45 south). Free parking. $20,000 guaranteed prize fund. In 8 sec-
tions; no unrated allowed in Master or Expert. Master (2200/up):
$2000-1000-600-400, clear win or 1st on tiebreak $100, top U2400 $800-
400. FIDE. Expert (2000-2199): $1400-700-400-200. Class A
(1800-1999/Unr): $1400-700-400-200. Class B (1600-1799/Unr): $1400-
700-400-200. Class C (1400-1599/Unr): $1200-600-400-200. Class D
(1200-1399/Unr): $1000-500-300-200. Class E(Under 1200/Unr): $1000-
500-300-200. Under 1000 (Under 1000/Unr): $200-100-60-40, trophies
to first 5, top Under 800, Under 600, Unrated. Rated players may play
up one section. Prize limits: Unrated may not win over $100 in U1000,
$200 E, $300 D, $500 C, $700 B, or $900 A. If any post-event rating posted
at uschess.org 7/19/10-7/19/11 is more than 30 points over section max-
imum, prize limit $500. Top 7 sections EF: 3-day $103, 2-day $102
mailed by 7/11, all $104 online at chesstour.com by 7/16, $110 phoned
to 406-896-2038 by 7/16 (entry only, no questions), $120 at site. Under
1000 Section EF: all $70 less than above. All: No mailed credit card
entries. No checks at site, credit cards OK. Online or mailed EF $5 less
to ICA members; join/renew at il-chess.org. An ICA Tour event. Unoffi-
cial uschess.org ratings usually used if otherwise unrated. Special 1 year
USCF dues with paper magazine if paid with entry. Online at
chesstour.com, Adult $30, Young Adult $20, Scholastic $15. Mailed,
entry $50; not available in Master Section. GMs $80 from prize. 3-day
schedule: Reg. ends Fri 6 pm, rds. Fri 7, Sat 11 & 6, Sun 10 & 4:30. 2-
day schedule: Reg. ends Sat 10 am, rds. Sat 11, 2:30 & 6, Sun 10 & 4:30.
Bye: all, Master must commit before rd 2, others before rd 3. HR: $103-
103-103-103, 800-937-8461, 847-777-6500, reserve by 7/6 or rate may
increase. Car rental: Avis, 800-331-1600, use AWD #D657633. Ent: Con-
tinental Chess, Box 249, Salisbury Mills, NY 12577. $15 service charge
for refunds. Questions: chesstour.com, 845-496-9658. Advance entries
posted at chesstour.com. Chess Magnet School JGP.
Jul. 28-Aug. 1, Maryland
2012 Washington International
9SS, 40/90, SD/30 inc/30. Rockville Hilton, 1750 Rockville Pike, Rockville,
MD 20852, 301-468-0308. Guaranteed Prizes: $5000-3000-2000-1000-
900-800-700-600-500-500, top U2500 $700-300, top U2300 $700-300.
(minimum 2100 FIDE to play. FIDE ratings used for pairings and
prizes). Sets, board and clocks provided. GM and IM norms pos-
sible. Free Continental breakfast every morning. Optionally, pairings
can be texted to your phone. EF: GMs, non-US IMs, or FIDE over 2500
Free, US IMs, non-US FIDE rated, or FIDE over 2400 $200, FIDE over 2300
$300, FIDE over 2200 $400, FIDE under 2200 $500. All $25 more after
6/1, $50 more after 6/29, $75 more after 7/24, $100 more at the door.
Special EFs: ALL EFs $50 less, if staying at the Hilton. Schedule: Reg
ends Sat 10 am, rds 7/28-7/31:11&6, Wed 8/1 10am. HR: $98. Ent: MCA,
c/o Michael Regan, 1827 Thornton Ridge Rd., Towson, MD 21204. More
information, link for hotel reservation & online entry at: http://washing-
toninternationalchess.com. Chess Magnet School JGP.
Regional
Alabama
Mar. 24-25, Labate's Athens Mar 2012
4SS, G/100. Athens Recreation Center, 270 Us Highway 31 N, Athens, AL
(256) 233-8740. $$b/EF: $12. $15 on Mar. 24. Free entry to GMs, IMs,
and WGMs. Rds.: 9am/12:30 each day. Half point bye at registration.
Online Entry & add'l info: www.edwardlabatechess.com, edwardlabat-
echess@charter.net. Chess Magnet School JGP.
Mar. 30-Apr. 1 or Mar. 31-Apr. 1, 10th Annual Southern Class Cham-
pionships (FL)
See Grand Prix.
Mar. 31, Huntsville Challenge
4SS, TC: G/75. UAH - University Center Room 126, 1410 Ben Graves
Dr., Huntsville, AL 35816. Open (PF: $$b/25): $225-150-U1900:125-
U1700:100; Reserve (PF: $$b/25): $200-125-U1300:100-U1100:75.
Rds.: 9-11:30-2:30-5. EF: $30; if mailed by MAR 24th; $40 at site.
Scholastic: 5SS, TC: G/30. EF: $20. Trophy: Top 3. Rds.: 9-10-11-
12:45-1:45. Late REG.: MAR 31st: 8-8:45am. Checks payable to: Caesar
Chess. ENT: Caesar Chess LLC, 5184 Caldwell Mill Rd., Suite 204 - 202,
Birmingham, AL 35244. Info: CaesarChess@yahoo.com, www.Aalaba-
maChess.com. Chess Magnet School JGP.
Arizona
Mar. 10, Liulia Cardona's Tempe Open
4 round, USCF rated tournament; SECTIONS: USCF: 2000 & up/1600-
1999/1200-1599/U1200. ASCF: U1000; G/60 for the top 4 sections.
G/30 for U1000; ROUND TIMES: 4 top sections: 9am/11:15am/1:30pm/
3:30pm. 5:30pm Ceremony. U/1000: 9am/10:15am/12:00pm/1:15pm.
2:30pm Ceremony. PRIZES: $200 1st, $100 2nd 2000 & up/ Top 3 trophies
in 1600-1999, 1200-1599, and U1200/ Top 5 U1000 plus best U800 and
U600; ENTRY FEE: $20 by 3/7, $23 by 3/8, $26 by 3/9, $30 at site. $10
to play up. TO REGISTER: chessemporium.com, call 602-482-4867. SITE:
1835 E. Elliot Rd., Tempe, AZ.
May 4-6 or 5-6, Western Amateur (CA-S)
See California, Southern.
July 19-22, 20-22 or 21-22, 17th annual Pacific Coast Open (CA-S)
See Grand Prix.
Arkansas
Mar. 10-11, Arkansas Open
5-SS, G/90+30spm. Day's Inn, 2402 N. College Ave., Fayetteville, AR
72703; (479) 443-4323. HR: 1 King 52-52; 2 Queens 60-60. EF: $35 (by
3/08), 40 at door. $$ (b/40) 200-150; A,B,C,D/E 100 (min 3 in class or
prize=75); Unr. 50; Upset 50. One 1/2 pt. bye avail. rds. 1-4. Reg.:
8:15-9:15. Rds.: 9:30-2-6:30, 9-1:30. Entries: Les Kline, 801 N. Rush Dr.,
Fayetteville, AR 72701; (479) 444-8530; cl_kline@sbcglobal.net. USCF
& ACA (OSA). Chess Magnet School JGP.
California, Northern
Capital City C. C. Sundays Chess for Kids
Round Table Pizza, 3005 Freeport Blvd., Sacramento. Quads (3/RR). T/C:
G/30 w/5 Second Delay. RDS.: 12pm/Ongoing. PRIZES: 1st - Trophy or
Inscribed Chess Clock, 1st thru 4th - Medals or Pins. TIE-BREAK: G/7 w/3
Second Delay. EF: $20 (Includes $5 Food Gift Certificate). REG.: 11am at
Site Only. DIRECTOR: John C. Barnard 209-450-6133. JohnCharles
Barnard@gmail.com, capitalcitychessclub.com.
Mar. 3-4, 2012 U.S. Junior Chess Congress
See Nationals.
Mar. 16-18 or 17-18, Bay Area Chess Spring Open
See Grand Prix.
Mar. 31, Santa Clara County Elementary Championship
Harker Middle, 3800 Blackford Ave., San Jose. Trophies: Top 7 players
& Top 5 teams in each section. 7 sections based on grade KG-6. Sched:
Reg. 8:30-9a. KG, Gr 1 2 3: 5xG/30 games 9:30, 10:45, 12:30, 1:45, 3.
Gr 4 5 6: 4xG/45 games 9:30, 11:15, 1:15, 3. EF: $37 by 3/28. Info/flyer:
BayAreaChess.com/santaclara12. NS, NC, W.
Apr. 7, May 6, Bay Area Chess 4 Less Quads
1639A S. Main St., Milpitas. Trophies for winning record. Sched: Check-
in by: 3:15p, 3xG/30. Games: 3:45-6. EF: $19 by Wed before tourney.
Info/flyer: BayAreaChess.com/chess4less. NS. NC.
Apr. 7, May 6, Bay Area Chess 4 Less Swiss
1639A S. Main St., Milpitas. Trophies: Players w/winning record, teams
w/2+ players. Sched: Reg. 8:30-9a. Games: 9:30a-2p. 3 Sections: u500
5xG/30, u900 5xG/30, 900+ 4xG/45. EF: $27 by Wed before tourney.
Info/flyer: BayAreaChess.com/chess4less. NS. NC.
Apr. 20 or 21 or 22 or 21-22, CalChess State Scholastics Champi-
onship 2012
Note corrections: Santa Clara Convention Center, 5001 Great America
Pkwy. Park free. Hotel $109: Hyatt Regency, 5101 Great America Pkwy.,
Santa Clara. Main Event: Trophies to all KG & top 20 players (winning
record) in each section. Medals to others. K-3 u900 sections: Sat 9a. K
& 4-6 u750: Sun 9a. Blitz Fr 6-8:30p. Bughouse Sa 6-8:30p. EF by
4/10: 1-day $48, 2-day $60. Onsite+$40. Apr Supp & TD disc to place
players. Info/reg: CalChessScholastics.org. Quest: ask@BayAreaChess.
com. USCF+CalChess Mem reqd. NS, NC, W.
Apr. 21-22, 7th Annual Frank Doyle Open
See Grand Prix.
Apr. 28-29, Hans Poschmann Memorial
4-SS, 30/90; SD/60 d/5. Club Sport, 46650 Landing Parkway, Fremont,
CA 94538. $$B 60 paid entries (not counting unrated entries). Three Sec-
tions: Open $300-210 U2200 $200-100; A/B $200-150 U1800 $145-100;
Reserve $200-150 U1400 $145-100 Unr: Trophy First. All, EF: post-
marked by 4/23 $60, $70 at site. Unrateds $20 in the Reserve section
or may play up to the Open section for the regular fee. USCF memb. req'd.
May play up for add'l $10 per section. Reg.: Sat 4/28 9:00-9:45am.
RDS.: Sat 10:00-3:30; Sun 10:00-3:30; One 1/2 pt bye available if
requested in advance (bye in rds 3 or 4 must be requested before rd 1).
2012 April Supplement, CCA minimums and Directors discretion will be
used to place players as accurately as possible. Please bring clocks and
equipment. INFO: Ken Zowal (510)-623-9935. Email: kenneth.zowal@sbc-
global.net or richardkoepcke@yahoo.com. Ent: Ken Zowal, P.O. Box
3211, Fremont CA 94539. No Phone entries. Chess Magnet School JGP.
May 26-28 or 27-28, Best of the West Class Championship
See Grand Prix.
May 27, Azhar Memorial NorCal Grade Level Champ
Marriott, 2700 Mission College Blvd., Santa Clara, CA. Hotel $89. Trophies:
Top 20 players & Top 10 teams in ea section. 8 sections: KG 1 2 3 4 5 6
7-12. Sched: Reg. 8:30-9a. K-3: 5xG/30 games 9:30 11 12:30 1:50
3:15. Gr 4-12: 4xG4/5 games 9:30 11:20 1:15 3:15. EF by 5/22: $39. Info:
BayAreaChess.com/grade12. NS, NC, W.
July 19-22, 20-22 or 21-22, 17th annual Pacific Coast Open (CA-S)
See Grand Prix.
California, Southern
Los Angeles CHESS CLUB
The premier chess club in Southern California! (310) 795-
5710 * www.LAChessClub.com. The premier chess club
in Southern California! Saturdays: 10AM-10 pm (Novice
Class & 3 Tournaments) Sundays: 12-6 & 1-5 pm
(Beginner class & 2 Tournaments) Details on our web
site Tuesdays: 7:30-9:30 pm (Intermediate/Advance
Lecture) 11514 Santa Monica Blvd., Los Angeles, CA
90025 * (310) 795-5710 (4 blocks 405 West, Santa
Monica& Butler * 2nd Floor above Javan Restaurant)
* Group Classes * Tournaments * Private (1:1) Lessons.
Mar. 3&4, 10&11, 17&18, 24&25, LACC - Sat & Sun G/61
6SS, G/61. 11514 Santa Monica Blvd., LA 90025, 2nd fl. EF: $45 ($35 LACC
memb). Reg.: 11-12 pm. Rds.: 12, 2, 4 pm each day. Prizes: 1/2 collec-
tions. Parking: Free at BoA and streets ($3 basement). Info:
310/795-5710 or Mick@LAChessClub.com. Chess Magnet School JGP.
Mar. 3, 10, 17, 24, 31, LACC - LA Masters G/30
3SS, G/30. 11514 Santa Monica Blvd., LA, 90025, 2nd Fl. 4 blks W 405.
EF: $30 ($20 memb). Reg.: 5-6 pm. Rds.: 6, 7, 8 pm. Prizes: ($180 b/10,
75%); Parking: Free at BoA ($3 basement). Info: 310/795-5710.
Mar. 3, 10, 17, 24, 31, LACC - Sat Nite Blitz (G/5) (QC)
5DSS, (10 Games). 11514 Santa Monica Blvd., LA, 90025, 2nd fl. 4 blks
W 405. EF: $10. Q-rated. Reg.: 8-9 pm. Rds.: 9, 9:20, 9:40, 10, 10:20.
Prizes: 1/2 EF. Parking: Free on Butler ($3 basement).
Mar. 3, 10, 17, 24, 31, LACC - Saturday G/61
3SS, G/61. 11514 Santa Monica Blvd., LA, 90025, 2nd fl. ($320 b/20),
$100/50/30; U1800-1200:$50/40/30/20. EF: $25 ($20 memb). Reg.: 11-
12 pm. Rds.: 12, 2, 4 pm. Parking: basement ($3). Info: 310/795-5710.
Mar. 4, 11, 18, 25, LACC - Every Sunday Chess 4 Jrs.
4 separate events - 2 Sections: 1000+ & U1000 (latest ratings used),
5SS, G/30. 11514 Santa Monica Blvd., LA, 90025, 2nd fl. 4 blocks W 405.
EF: $25 ($20 LACC memb, $10 off siblings, Free new LACC memb). Reg.:
12-1 pm. Rds.: 1, 2, 3, 4 pm. Prizes: Trophies (Top 3) & Medals (rest);
each player receives a prize! Parking: Free at BoA and streets. Free
snacks & free class (12-1). Info: (310) 795-5710 or Mick@LAChessClub.
com.
CONTINENTAL CHESS SCHEDULE
Visit our website at www. chesstour. com for
late news, results, games, CCA minimum ratings,
advance entries, and more!
Most tournaments have alternate schedules
playing less or more days than listed below.
Asterisk means full details in this issue-
otherwise, see future issues or our website.
3/9-11: Western Class Championships, Agoura Hills CA*
3/16-18: Mid-America Open, St Louis MO*
3/16-18: Long Island Open, Ronkonkoma NY*
3/23-25: Pittsburgh Open, Pittsburgh PA*
3/30-4/1: Southern Class, Orlando FL*
4/4-8: Philadelphia Open, Philadelphia PA*
4/27-29: Green Mountain Open, Rutland VT*
5/4-6: Western Amateur, Los Angeles CA*
5/18-20: New York State Open, Lake George NY*
5/24-28: Chicago Open, Wheeling IL*
6/8-10: Northeast Open, Stamford CT*
6/29-7/3: Philadelphia International, Philadelphia PA*
7/4-8: World Open, Philadelphia PA*
7/20-22: Chicago Class, Wheeling IL*
7/20-22: Pacific Coast Open, Agoura Hills CA*
7/27-29: Southern Open, Orlando FL
7/27-29: Bradley Open, Windsor Locks CT
8/3-5: Cleveland Open, Cleveland OH
8/10-12: Continental Open, Sturbridge MA
8/17-19: Indianapolis Open, Indianapolis IN
8/17-19: Manhattan Open, New York NY
8/17-19: Central California Open, Fresno CA
8/24-26: Atlantic Open, Washington DC
9/1-3: New York State Championship, Albany NY
9/21-23: Louisville Open, Louisville KY
10/4-8: Continental Class, Arlimgton VA
10/5-7: Los Angeles Open, Los Angeles CA
10/12-14: Midwest Class, Wheeling IL
10/19-21: Boardwalk Open, Asbury Park NJ
11/9-11: Kings Island Open, Mason OH
For later events, see chesstour.com.
DROPPING OUT?
Have to miss a round?
It is very important that you
NOTIFY THE DIRECTOR
before pairings are made, so no one
is deprived of a game! If you forfeit
without notice, you may be FINED
up to the amount of the entry fee!
Tournament Life
Mar. 4, 11, 18, 25, LACC - Sunday G/61
3SS, G/61. 11514 Santa Monica Blvd., LA, 90025 2nd fl. ($320 b/20),
$100/50/30; U1800-1200: $50/40/30/20. EF: $25 ($20 memb). Reg.: 11-
12 pm. Rds.: 12, 2, 4 pm. Parking: Free at BoA and streets ($3 basement).
Info: 310/795-5710.
Mar. 9-11 or 10-11, 19th annual Western Class Championships
See Grand Prix.
Mar. 17, Joshua Tree March Madness
4SS, G/60, T/D:0. Reg.: 8-9:15. Rnds. 9:30, 11:45, 2:45, 5:00. Faith
Lutheran Church, 6336 Hallee Rd., Joshua Tree. (2 blks N. of Hwy 62). EF:
$30. Prizes: 70% EF. Info and Ent: Mark Muller, P.O. Box 502, 29 Palms,
CA 92277, (760)367-2311, Email: muller29@roadrunner.com. NS, NC, W.
Mar. 24-25, LACC - Sat & Sun G/90
4SS, G/90. 11514 Santa Monica Blvd., LA 90025, 2nd fl. EF: $45 ($35 LACC
memb). Reg.: 11-12 pm. Rds.: 12, 3 pm each day. Prizes: 1/2 collections.
Parking: Free on Butler ($3 basement). Info: 310/795-5710 or
Mick@LAChessClub.com. Chess Magnet School JGP.
Apr. 27-29, 2012 National Junior High (K-9) Championship
See Nationals.
May 4-6 or 5-6, Western Amateur
5SS, 40/2, SD/1, d/5 (2-day option, rds 1-2 G/75, d/5). Sheraton Four
Points LAX, 9750 Airport Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90045. Special parking
$5/day. $$10,000 guaranteed. In 5 sections. Under 2300: $1000-500-
300-200, top Under 2100/Unr $400-200. FIDE. Under 2000: $1000-500-
300-200, top Under 1800 $400-200. Under 1700: $800-500-300-200, top
Under 1500 $400-200. Under 1400: $600-300-200-100, top Under 1200
$300-150. Under 1100: $400-200-100-50, trophies to top 3,1st Under 900,
Under 700, Under 500, Unrated. Unrated may not win over $200 in
U1100, $300 U1400, or $500 U1700. Top 3 sections EF: 3-day $83, 2-
day $82 mailed by 4/26, all $85 online atchesstour.com by 5/1, $90
phoned to 406-896-2038 by 5/1 (entry only, no questions), $100 (no
checks, credit cards OK) at site. U1400 Section EF: All $20 less than top
3 sections EF. U1100 Section EF: All $40 less than top 3 sections EF. All:
re-entry $60. Unofficial uschess.org ratings usually used if other unrated.
Special 1 year USCF dues with magazine if paid with entry. Online at
chesstour.com, Adult $30, Young Adult $20, Scholastic$15. Mailed, phoned
or paid at site, Adult $40, Young Adult $30, Scholastic $20. SCCF memb.
($18, jr. $10) required for rated Southern CA residents. 3-day sched-
ule: Reg ends Fri 6 pm, rds. Fri 7 pm,Sat 11 & 6, Sun 10 & 4:15. 2-day
schedule: Reg ends Sat 10 am, rds. Sat 11, 2:30 & 6, Sun 10 & 4:15. All:
Half point byes OK all, limit 2, must commit before rd 3. HR: $89-89, 1-
800-529-4683, 310-649-7025; reserve by 4/20 or rate may increase. Car
rental: Avis, 800-331-1600, AWDD657633, or reserve car online through
DirectorAtChess.US, 845-496-9658. Advance entries posted atchess
tour.com. Chess Magnet School JGP.
July 19-22, 20-22 or 21-22, 17th annual Pacific Coast Open
See Grand Prix.
Colorado
Mar. 31-Apr. 1, 2012 Colorado Class Tournament
4 SS, G/90, inc/30. Manitou Springs City Hall, 606 Manitou Ave., Mani-
tou Springs, CO 80829. Directions: Take I-25 to Exit 141, US 24 West. Head
3 1/2 miles west towards the mountains and depart US24 at the Mani-
tou Avenue exit. Turn west onto Manitou Avenue then go 1 mile to the
Manitou Springs City Hall. 7 Sections: SM/M/X, A, B, C, D, E, Under
E/Unr. E and Under E/Unr. sections may be combined if there are not
enough participants in either section. Pre-registration EF: $40 if received
by Friday March 23, 2012; $30 for seniors (65 & over), juniors (under 21),
and unrated players (no USCF Rating on the USCF Ratings website for
March 2012 Supplement). No pre-registrations accepted without full
payment. On-site EF: $45 regular; $33 for seniors (65 & over), juniors
(under 21) and unrated players (no USCF Rating on the USCF Ratings web-
site for March 2012 Supplement). Prizes: Cash Prizes per Entries.
Unrated players may only win an Unrated category prize. *In addition,
the Class champions in the A, B, C, D, and E classes will represent Col-
orado in the Rocky Mountains Team Chess Challenge. Reg.: Sat,
9am-10:30am. Rds.: Sat 11am-4pm, Sun 9am-2pm. Ent & Info: Jerry
Maier, 229 Hargrove Ct., Colorado Springs, CO 80919-2213; pmjer77@
aim.com; 719.660.5531; more info at http://www.colorado-chess.com/
newtourn.shtml. CO TOUR EVENT. USCF Membership required. CSCA
Membership required ($15 reg; $10 Youth-under 21 or Senior-65+).
OSA. Byes: One non-retractable 1/2 point bye may be requested no later
than the start of the second round. Produced and Directed by the Col-
orado State Chess Association. Chess Magnet School JGP.
Apr. 21-22, 2012 Colorado Senior Championship
4 SS, G/90, inc/30. Masonic Lodge, 455 El Paso Ave., Manitou Springs,
CO 80829. Directions: Take I-25 to Exit 141, US 24 West. Head 3 1/2 miles
west towards the mountains and depart US24 at the Manitou Avenue exit.
Turn west onto Manitou Avenue then go 1 mile to Old Man's Trail (at the
park) and turn right. Continue to El Paso Blvd and turn right. Travel for
1/4 mile, site will be on your right; turn into the parking lot for the
Masonic Lodge (big white building). Open: Open to all players age 50 or
older by December 31, 2012. EF: $40 regular; $30 for seniors (65 & over)
and unrated players (no USCF Rating on the USCF Ratings website for
April 2012 Supplement). No Pre-registration discount. Prizes: Cash
prizes per entries. Reg.: Sat, 9:30-10:30am. Rds.: Sat 11am-4pm, Sun
9am-2pm. Ent & Info: Jerry Maier, 229 Hargrove Ct., Colorado Springs,
CO 80919-2213; pmjer77@aim.com; 719.660.5531; more info at
http://www.colorado-chess.com/newtourn.shtml. NOT a Colorado Tour
Event. BYES: One non-retractable 1/2 point bye may be requested no later
than the start of the second round. Produced and Directed by the Col-
orado State Chess Association.
May 5-6, 3rd Annual Salute To Bobby Fischer
4 Round Swiss System Tournament. Time Control: All rounds: 40/120
G/60, d/5. Site: The Inn at Palmer Divide, 443 State Highway 105,
Palmer Lake, CO 80133. Sections: Open (open to all), U1800, U1400. EF:
$55. Pre-Registration: $50. Must be received by May 3, 2012. Go to eagle-
andking.webs.com for entry form. USCF membership required. See
www.uschess.org for rates. Prizes: Cash prizes per entries, paid at end
of event. Registration: Saturday 5/5, 8:30-9:30am. Rounds: 5/5 -
10:00am, 3:00pm; 5/6 9:00am, 3:00pm. Entries: Fred Spell, 16845 Buf-
falo Valley Path, Monument, CO 80132. Phone: (719) 491-1040. Email:
gentlemenschessclub@hotmail.com. Presented by the Gentlemen's
Chess Club. Chess Magnet School JGP.
Connecticut
Mar. 10, Fischer Memorial
CH Booth Library, 25 Main St., 3rd Fl., Newtown, CT 06470, 100 yds. south
Cajun Chess
7230 Chadbourne Drive
New Orleans, LA 70126
504-208-9596
cajunchess@yahoo.com
www.cajunchess.com
Chess Club and Scholastic
Center of St. Louis
4657 Maryland Avenue
St. Louis, MO 63108.
314-361-CHESS
info@stlouischessclub.org
www.stlouischessclub.org
Continental Chess
Association
PO Box 249, Salisbury Mills,
NY 12577.
845-496-9658
chesstour@aol.com
www.chesstour.com
Dallas Chess Club
200 S. Cottonwood Dr. Suite C
Richardson, TX 75080
972-231-2065
info@dallaschess.com
www.dallaschess.com
International Chess Academy (NJ)
28 Canterbury Lane
New Milford, NJ 07646
201-287-0250
diana@icanj.net, www.icanj.net
Shore HS Chess League
PO Box 773
Lincroft, NJ 07738
shorehschessleague@yahoo.com
New Jersey State
Chess Federation
c/o Roger Inglis, 49-A Mara Rd.
Lake Hiawatha, NJ 07034
973-263-8696, rwij@njoychess.com
www.njscf.org
New York City Chess Inc
c/o Russell Makofsky
230 Thompson Street
New York, NY 10012, 212-475-8130
info@chessnyc.com
www.chessnyc.com
North American Chess Association
4957 Oakton Street, Suite 113
Skokie, IL 60077, 888.80.Chess
sevan@nachess.org
www.nachess.org
PaperClip Pairings
c/o J. Houghtaling Jr & Remy Ferrari
6005 Forest Blvd
Brownsville, TX 78526, 956-459-2421
jejrhoughtaling@bisd.us
San Diego Chess Club
2225 Sixth Avenue
San Diego, CA 92101, 619-239-7166
chucnglo@aol.com
http://sdchessclub.multiply.com
Texas Tech University SPICE
Box 45080
Lubbock, TX 79409
806-742-7742
SPICE@ttu.edu
www.SPICE.ttu.edu
Tri-State Chess
The Chess Exchange
325 East 88th Street
New York, NY 10128
212-289-5997
info@TriStateChess.com
www.TriStateChess.com
Village Chess Shop of NYC
c/o Michael Propper
230 Thompson Street
New Yor k, NY 10012
212-475-9580
info@chess-shop.com
www.chess-shop.com
Western PA Youth Chess Club
Attn: Jerry Meyers
4101 Windsor Street
Pittsburgh, PA 15217
412-422-1770
catnipper99@yahoo.com
www.youthchess.net
Bay Area Chess (CA)
www.BayAreaChess.com
Beverly Hills Chess Club (CA)
www.bhchessclub.com
En Passant Chess Club (TX)
td_edg@sbcglobal.net
Indiana State Chess Association
www.indianachess.org
Long Island Chess Nuts (NY)
516-739-3907
Marshall Chess Club (NY)
www.marshallchessclub.org
Michigan Chess Association
www.michess.org
Monmouth Chess School & Club (NJ)
www.monmouthchess.com
Oklahoma Chess Foundation
www.OKchess.org
Our Lady of Sorrows Academy (AZ)
professor.revesz@gmail.com
Silver Knights (PA)
www.silverknightschess.com
Sparta Chess Club (NJ)
www.spartachessclub.org
GOLD & SILVER
AFFILIATES
GOLD
Any affiliate that has submitted at least 50
USCF memberships during the current or
previous calendar year, or is the recognized
State Affiliate, is eligible to become a Gold
Affiliate. Gold Affiliates are honored in a
special list in larger type in Tournament
Life each month, giving the affiliate name,
address, phone number, e-mail address,
and website. Gold Affiliation costs $350 per
year, and existing affiliates may substract $3
for each month remaining on their regular
affiliation, or $20 for each month remaining
on their Silver Affiliation. As of August 6,
2007, by paying an annual payment of $500
(instead of $350), Gold Affiliate status may
be obtained with no minimum requirement
for memberships submitted.
SILVER
Any affiliate that has submitted at least 25
USCF memberships during the current or
previous calendar year, or is the recognized
State Affiliate, is eligible to become a Silver
Affiliate. These affiliates will be recognized
in a special list in Tournament Life each
month, giving the affiliate name, state, and
choice of either phone number, e-mail
address, or website. Silver Affiliation costs
$150 per year, and existing affiliates may
subtract $3 for each month remaining on
their regular affiliation. As of August 6, 2007,
by paying an annual payment of $250.00
(instead of $150), Silver Affiliate status may
be obtained with no minimum requirement for
memberships submitted.
SILVER AFFILIATES
GOLD AFFILIATES
of Flagpole on Rte.25. 3SS, G/45. Prizes: $$ per entries. Rds.: 12:15, and
as available thereafter. EF: $15 at door only. Reg.: 11:30-12. Info:
licensingagent@yahoo.com. Check website in case of inclement weather:
newtownchessclub.wetpaint.com. Arrive early, space is limited. NS, NC,
W.
Mar. 16-18 or 17-18, Long Island Open (NY)
See Grand Prix.
Mar. 18, Planet Earth Chess Championship
At the beautiful Rockledge Country Club at 289 South Main Street in West
Hartford, CT (Exit 41 off I-84). BUFFET LUNCH, including beverages,
INCLUDED for all participants ($25 per person for others), and coffee
etc will be free throughout the day. 4-SS, Game/45, 5-second delay
(USCF Dual-Rated). TWO SECTIONS: OPEN (open to all), and UNDER-1600
(for those rated below 1600 as of the February supplement). OPEN
Section Prizes: Trophies to 1st (with title of Planet Earth Chess Cham-
pion!), 2nd; Top Under 2000, Top Under 1800. UNDER-1600 Section
Prizes: Trophies to 1st; Top Under 1300, Top Under 1000. ALSO: Trophy
for Biggest Upset in either section. SCHEDULE: On-site Registration
ends at 9:45; Rounds at 10:00, 12:45, 2:30, and 4:15. ADVANCE ENTRY:
$39, make check payable to New Britain Chess Club, specify section, and
mail by 3/12/12 to: Doug Fiske, 20 Glen Hollow, West Hartford, CT
06117. ON-SITE ENTRY: $50 (CASH ONLY). Please bring digital clocks
and sets. Any questions/more details, call Derek at (860)250-6040.
Mar. 24, 2012K-6, K-8, K-12 Connecticut Scholastic Championships
(A CT State Chess Association [CSCA] sanctioned event hosted by the
Roger Ludlowe Middle School PTA and DJA Chess Instruction). Roger Lud-
lowe Middle School (RLMS), 689 Unquowa Rd., Fairfield, CT 06824, (203)
255-8345 (I-95 exit 21 Mill Plain Road). Out of state players: prize eli-
gible except for 2012 Dewain Barber Tournament of K-8 Champions,
2012 Denker Tournament of High School Champions, and US Girls' Chess
Championship qualification awards. K-12 Championship Section: 4SS,
G/60 One Section open to all K-12. RDS.: 10-1:00-3:30-6:00 or ASAP. 1/2
point byes available with advance notice in rounds 1-3 only, no last
round byes. WINNER RECEIVES FREE ENTRY TO THE MARCH 31ST CT
STATE OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP OPEN SECTION. Awards Ceremony: 8:30
PM. Grade Champion Plaques: Grade champions will be recognized for
each of the four high school grades; 9th, 10th 11th and 12th grades. A
Grade champion is defined as a top CT resident or top out-of-state res-
ident attending a CT school full-time. He/She will receive a plaque as top
overall CT grade champion. Note: The highest scoring Connecticut male
and female champions in grades 9 -12 will be awarded the High School
State Champion Title; 2012 Denker invite for the highest scoring male;
US Open Girls' Championship for the highest scoring female; $300 CSCA
grant applied as assistance in travel expenses to these national tourna-
ment events. During the games players must leave all electronic devices
with the TD. Players determined to be in possession of such devices while
playing may be subject to forfeiture, expulsion and arrest. All K-8 Sec-
tions: 5SS, G/30 MIDDLE SCHOOL CHAMPIONSHIP SECTION WINNER
RECEIVES FREE ENTRY TO THE MARCH 31ST CT STATE OPEN CHAMPI-
ONSHIP OPEN SECTION; ELEMENTARY CHAMPIONSHIP SECTION
WINNER RECEIVES FREE ENTRY TO THE MARCH 31ST NEW HAVEN
SCHOLASTIC. K-8 Championship Sections: Middle School (Grades 6
through 8), Elementary (Grades 4 and 5), Primary (Grades 2 and 3), First
Grade, Kindergarten; K-8 Novice Sections: Middle School (Grades 6
through 8 U1000), Elementary (Grades 4 and 5 U800), Primary (Grades
2 and 3 U600); EF: $55 if postmarked by 3/11; $75 by 3/18; $100 by 3/23
or later. NO ONSITE ENTRIES! Entry Fee includes $5 CSCA annual mem-
bership and participation fee. RDS.: 9:15-11:30-1:00-2:30-4:00 or as soon
as possible if round finishes earlier; team pairings in rounds 1-4 only.
Awards Ceremony: 6:00 PM. Grade Champion Plaques: Grade cham-
pions will be awarded for each grade in the Championship and Premier
sections. A Grade champion will be awarded for each grade; Top CT res-
ident or top out-of-state resident attending a CT school full-time receives
a plaque as top overall CT grade champion of that section. Champi-
onship and Premier Section; The highest scoring Connecticut player in
the Middle School Championship Section will be awarded the K-8 Open
State Champion Title and eligibility for the 2012 Dewain Barber Tour-
nament of K-8 Champions; $300 CSCA grant applied as assistance in
travel expenses to this national tournament event for the winner. Trophy
Prizes Based on 50 entries PER SECTION (400 total entries). Trophy
Prizes may be scaled down (or up). Individual and team trophies to be
awarded as follows: Trophies to top 10; Trophies to top 5 unrated in each
Premier Section. Team trophies to top 10 in each section; Medals to all
non-trophy winners in all sections 5th grade and below; Top 10 schools
combined sections team awards All Sections: 3/2012 Supplement used
for Ratings and Pairings; Minimum of 2 players comprise a team, top 4
scores counted as team score. Team Rooms: Available through the
RLMS PTA at $100/room/day. Contact Mrs. Laura Bernaschina
(lamb5@optonline.net) for reservations and details. ENT: DJA Chess
Instruction, 248 Mill Street, Southington, CT 06489. NO PHONE ENTRIES.
Please include name, grade, school, section, USCF ID#, Exp. Date, home
address, birth date, parent home and work phone numbers, parents
names, e-mail address, and name of adult supervisor if under 16. INCOM-
PLETE ENTRIES WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED. NOTE: MAKE CHECKS PAYABLE
TO: CT ST SCHOLASTIC CHESS CHAMPIONSHIP. Info: DJA Chess Instruc-
tion office (860) 628-6777.
Mar. 24, Newtown Spring Open
CH Booth Library, 25 Main St., 3rd Fl., Newtown, CT 06470, 100 yds. south
of Flagpole on Rte.25. 3SS, G/45. Prizes: $$ per entries. Rds.: 12:15, and
as available thereafter. In 2 Sections: Open, Under 1200/Unrated.
Unrated may not win more than 50% of prizes. EF: Both Sections: $15
at door only. Reg.: 11:30-12. Info: licensingagent@yahoo.com. Check
website in case of inclement weather: newtownchessclub.wetpaint.com.
Arrive early, space is limited. NS, NC, W.
Mar. 31, 2012 CT Open State Championship
See Grand Prix.
Mar. 31, 2012 New Haven Scholastic Championship
5-SS, G/30. Hopkins School, 986 Forest Rd., New Haven, CT. 06515.
Three Sections: U1200, U1000, U800/unrated. EF: $50 Online or mail,
$100 at site. Trophies: Top 5 each section, Top 3 Scholastic Teams. ONE
DAY Reg.: 9:00-9:45. Rd. 1 10am then asap. Register Online: www.edu
techchess.com or www.CTChess.com.
Apr. 4-8, 5-8, 6-8 or 7-8, 6th annual Philadelphia Open (PA)
See Grand Prix.
Apr. 27-29 or 28-29, 23rd annual Vermont Resort Open (VT)
See Grand Prix.
May 18-20 or 19-20, 20th annual New York State Open (NY)
See Grand Prix.
June 8-10 or 9-10, 18th Annual Northeast Open
See Grand Prix.
July 4-8, 5-8, 6-8, 2-8, 1-3 or 4-5, 40th Annual World Open (PA)
See Grand Prix.
Delaware
Newark Chess Club
4-SS, G/75. USCF-rated games every Thursday 7-10 PM. 345 School
Bell Rd., Bear, DE 19701. For a full year of weekly games $22 for in-state
players, $15 out-of-state! www.newarkchessclub.blogspot.com, newark
chess@gmail.com. Chess Magnet School JGP.
Mar. 17, Cecil County Chess Club Quads (MD)
See Maryland.
District of Columbia
Apr. 14-15, Kingstowne Chess Festival - 10th Annual! (VA)
See Grand Prix.
Apr. 21, Rated Beginners Open (RBO)
4-SS, G/30. US Chess Center, 1501 M St. NW, Washington, DC 20005. Open
to players rated under 1200 or unrated. EF: $30 ($20 if by 4/14). 5 sec-
tions by age. Reg.: 12-12:45. Info: 202/857-4922. www.chessctr.org/
rbo.php.
Florida
Boca Raton Chess Club
Friday nights, Game 90 Tournament, one game a week for 4 weeks.
www.bocachess.com, 561-479-0351. Chess Magnet School JGP.
Epicure Grand Prix Series at Miami Country Day
Scholastic and Non-Scholastic Sections. More info at: www.bocachess.com
or call 954-421-8222 or 561-479-0351.
Pine Crest School Scholastic Grand Prix Series, Boca Raton
More info at: www.bocachess.com or call 561-479-0351.
Adult Dues Options! >>
Free 8-Line Tournament Life Announcements (TLAs)!
ACTIVITY MEANS MEMBERS
RUN AN ADDITIONAL TOURNAMENT THIS SUM-
MER! Each affiliate is entitled to one TLA per month
of up to 8 lines and up to 2 issues of Chess Life, for
any tournament between July and September 2012,
if no TLA for such an event appeared in 2011, and the
TLA is e-mailed by the appropriate deadline. The 8 free
lines cannot be applied to longer TLAs.
SPECIAL CATEGORIES QUALIFY FOR FREE TLAS!
Each affiliate is entitled to one TLA per month of up to 8
lines for events in the following categories, if submitted
by e-mail. The free lines cannot be applied to longer TLAs:
SENIOR. For age 50 or above, or a higher minimum
age.
UNRATEDS FREE. Any tournament that offers free
entry to unrated players. If your prizes are based on
entries, say paid entries.
USCF BOOSTER TOURNAMENT. A tournament that
offers at least two USCF membership renewal prizes, or
a quad that offers at least one per section.
CHESS CLUB SPECIAL. A tournament playing only on
one or more weekday evenings.
RBO. Open to Under 1200/Unr or Under 1000/Unr.
Tournament name must include Rated Beginners
Open or RBO.
BLITZ. Time control of Game/5. TLAs such as USCF-rated
Blitz every Friday 7 pm are accepted.
COLLEGIATE. A tournament limited to college students.
JUNIOR. For age 20/below (age 20 must be eligible).
NON-SCHOLASTIC WITH SCHOLASTIC. A tour-
nament for all ages held concurrent (same location)
with a scholastic tournament that in its previous
year drew at least 50 players. We encourage organ-
izers of scholastics to hold open or collegiate events
on the side.
SPECIAL RATES FOR CLUB ADS. Up to 5 lines $180
per year, $100 for 6 months for unchanged club ads in the
TLA section. Announce meeting dates & times, activities,
contact info, etc.
USCF DISCUSSION GROUPS. See www.uschess.
org/forums for four groups: Tournament Organization,
Chess Club Organization, Tournament Direction, USCF
Issues.
N E W F R E E T L A C A T E G O R I E S A D D E D !
Ages 21-24 dues lower
than Adult dues!
The membership category once called Youth has been
renamed Young Adult, and eligibility has changed from
under 21 to under 25. Annual dues for this category are
only $33 with paper Chess Life or $26 with the online
version!
One-year membership
withChess Life:
Only $46 for Premium Membership, which includes a
copy of Chess Life every month. Regular Memberships
are available for $40 and give online-only access to
Chess Life and a mailed Tournament Life Newsletter
(bi-monthly). (Note to affiliates: If you collect a $46 mem-
bership, you may submit it online to USCF for $43.)
Tournament Life
South Florida Chess Club
Wednesday's 6:30-10:30pm. Rated G/90 Tournaments and skittles. Most
tournaments are 4+ rounds Call 561-573-3677 or 954-304-0928 or
email southfloridachessclub@gmail.com or visit www.SouthFloridaChess
Club.com. Chess Magnet School JGP.
Mar. 24, March Scholastic Tournament
Orlando Chess and Games Center. 5SS, G/30. EF: $30. Trophies and
medals to all players, awards at 3:30 pm. Reg.: 9:15-9:55 am. RDS.: 10-
11-12-1:30-2:30, www.orlandochess.com. Info: call 407-248-0818 or
email alex@orlandochess.com.
pionships
See Grand Prix.
Apr. 14, April OCG Quick Open (QC)
Orlando Chess and Games Center. 6SS, G/29. EF: $30. PF: $650 b/30:
$250-$150-$100, U-1600, U-1200 $75 each. Reg.: 9:15-9:55 am. RDS.:
10-11-12:30-1:30-2:30-3:30, www.orlandochess.com. Info: call 407-248-
0818 or email alex@orlandochess.com.
Apr. 27-29 or 28-29, 19th Space Coast Open
See Grand Prix.
Georgia
pionships (FL)
See Grand Prix.
Idaho
Apr. 21-22, 2012 Idaho Open Chess Championship
5SS, G/120 d5. 2 Sections: Open and Reserve (U1400). Site: ISU, Stu-
dent Un Bldg, Salmon River Suites, 1065 S. 8th St., Pocatello, ID. EF: USCF
mem req., $30 (U18 & 60+ $25), ISU students & Chess Club $10, by
04/18/12. $5 more (all) after. Reg & Ck in: 7:30-8:30 AM 04/21/12. Those
not paid & ckd in by 8:30 AM may not be paired in 1st rnd. RNDS.:
9,2,7,9,2. 1/2 pt byes: Max 1, Rd 1-4 only. 0 pt bye avail rnd 5. Commit
by end of rd 2. Prizes: $$ b/30 non ISU; Open: $175-85-65; Reserve:
$75-50 -35. HR/ENT/INFO: ICA, % Jay Simonson, 391 Carol Ave., Idaho
Falls, ID 83401, 208-206-7667, rooknjay@yahoo.com, http://www.ida-
hochessassociation.org. NC, NS, W. Chess Magnet School JGP.
Illinois
North Shore Chess Center
5500 W. Touhy Ave., Suite A, Skokie, IL 60077, 847.423.
8626, www.nachess.org/nscc. Multiple monthly chess
events: Quick and Regular rated tournaments, FIDE
amateur tournaments, simuls and lectures by mas-
ters. Private & Group lessons for all ages and strengths
available. Home of the Chicago Blaze US Chess League
team. Contact: Sevan A. Muradian International Arbiter
& International Organizer - sevan@na chess.org.
Mar. 3, North Shore Chess Center (Skokie, IL)
G/30 + 5/sec incr. - 5R-SS. See http://www.nachess.org/events for more
info and online registration.
Mar. 4, North Shore Chess Center (QC)
G/3 + 2/sec increment Blitz. See http://www.nachess.org/events for
more info and online registration.
Mar. 10-11, North Shore Chess Center 8th NA Amateur Open
4R-SS, G/90 + 30/sec inc. See http://www.nachess.org/events for
more info and online registration. Chess Magnet School JGP.
Mar. 16-18 or 17-18, 16th annual Mid-America Open (MO)
See Grand Prix.
Mar. 17-18, 48th Greater Peoria Open
5 SS, G/120 T/d5. Lakeview Museum, 1125 Lake Ave., Peoria, IL 61614.
EF: $35 by 3/12, $45 at site, $20 Unr, $0 to Masters, $5 disc't ICA memb,
$3 disc't GPCF memb. $$GTD: 80% of EFs. REG.: 8:30-9:30. RDS.: 9:45-
2:15-6:30, 9:30-2:00. INFO: Bye 1-4. www.gpcf.net. ENT: Wayne Zimmerle,
514 W Loucks #2, Peoria, IL 61604, 309-692-4480 day, 309-686-0192
night, wzim@sbcglobal.net. Chess Magnet School JGP.
Mar. 18, Knights Quest #75
4SS, G/30,d5. Renaissance Chicago North Shore Hotel, 933 Skokie Blvd.,
Northbrook, IL. Presented by Renaissance Knights Chess Foundation.
USCF Rated Sections: Open (K-12 & Adults), U1400 (K-12 & Adults),
U1000 (K-8) & U600 (K-8). Awards: Top 5 each section, Top 2 teams
(except open), medals all others. Reg.: 12:00-12:30 pm. Rds.: 1 at 1:00
pm, rest ASAP. EF: $25 by 3/12, $30 after, $35 on-site. Online Registra-
tion: http://events.r20.constantcontact.com/register/event?oeidk=
a07e5a13wj1a2054394&11r=m1wzh4bab. Mail-in Reg: Renaissance
Knights, PO Box 1074, Northbrook, IL 60065. $5 discount to siblings and
team members when registering together. Info: www.rknights.org, 773-
844-0701.
Mar. 23, North Shore Chess Center Lantern Light Chess (QC)
G/15 + 5/sec incr. See http://www.nachess.org/events for more info
and online registration.
Mar. 24, JJC Chess Club - 3 Round Quad
3 round Quad, G/70. Joliet Jr. College, Bldg. J, Room 0006, 1215 Houbolt
Ave., Joliet, IL 60431, exit 127 from I-80. EF: $25 by 03/21, $35 at day
of event (Please Note: due to the longer time control, no scholastic play-
ers 12 or younger are allowed entry unless they are USCF rated 1,000
or higher, no exceptions please) Cash Prizes: $50 for 1st, $25 for 2nd
per quad (based on 4 per quad). Reg.: 9:00-9:50am. RDS.: 10:00am, 1:15
and 3:45. Info: Checks payable by 3/21 to Dennis R. Doyle, c/o JJC Chess
Club, 536 Springwood Dr., Joliet, IL 60431, no phone or credit card
entries, cash only payment day of event: e-mail questions to Dennis Doyle
at ddoyle@jjc.edu.
Mar. 24, North Shore Chess Center
G/60 + 5/sec incr. See www.nachess.org/events for more info and
online registration.
Mar. 25, North Shore Chess Center U1200 Scholastic
See www.nachess.org/events for more info and online registration.
Apr. 7, North Shore Chess Center (Skokie, IL)
G/30 + 5/sec incr. - 5R-SS. See http://www.nachess.org/events for more
info and online registration.
Apr. 7, May 5, June 2, July 7, Aug. 4, Warriors Open & Reserve
G/60+5(sec.delay), 3R-SS. Lincoln-Way West HS, 21701 S. Gouger Rd.,
New Lenox, IL 60451. Reg.: 8:15-8:45 am. Rds.: 9, 11:30, & 2. Two Sec-
tions: Open & Reserve (U1000). EF: $5. No concession on site (bring
sacklunch). USCF Membership required. Contact: Coach Miller 815-
463-0104, stevencraigmiller@comcast.net with questions.
Apr. 8, North Shore Chess Center (QC)
G/3 + 2/sec increment Blitz. See www.nachess.org/events for more info
Apr. 14-15, North Shore Chess Center 9th NA Amateur Open - 2nd
Annual Scott Silverman Memorial
4R-SS, G/90 + 30/sec inc. See www.nachess.org/events for more info
and online registration. Chess Magnet School JGP.
Overall Affiliate Standings
Name State Count
PAPERCLIP PAIRINGS TX 1280
CONTINENTAL CHESS ASSN NY 1075
BAY AREA CHESS CA 598
SILVER KNIGHTS VA 565
WESTERN PA YOUTH CHESS CLUB PA 366
SUCCESS CHESS SCHOOL CA 354
GATEWAY CHESS LEAGUE MO 335
DALLAS CHESS CLUB TX 287
LONG ISLAND CHESS NUTS NY 267
TRI-STATE CHESS NY 263
Small State Affiliate Standings
Name State Count
MAINE ASSOC OF CHESS COACHES ME 123
METRO CHESS DC 112
SIOUX EMPIRE CHESS FOUNDATION SD 80
OMAHA CHESS COMMUNITY NE 60
MESA CHESS CLUB NM 55
CMC-LLC RI 38
WELLS MEMORIAL SCHOOL NH 36
NEW MEXICO SCHOL CHESS ORG NM 33
WETZEL COUNTY CHESS CLUB WV 24
AIRLINE COMMUNITY SCHOOL ME 22
State Chapter Affiliate Standings
Name State Count
MICHIGAN CHESS ASSOCIATION MI 407
PENNSYLVANIA ST CHESS FED PA 224
MARYLAND CHESS ASSOCIATION MD 178
MINNESOTA ST CHESS ASSN MN 139
MASSACHUSETTS CHESS ASSOC MA 92
WASHINGTON CHESS FEDERATION WA 68
KENTUCKY CHESS ASSOCIATION KY 61
NEW JERSEY ST CHESS FED NJ 58
NEW HAMPSHIRE CHESS ASSN NH 53
WISCONSIN CHESS ASSOCIATION WI 37
Adult Membership Standings
Name State Count
MARSHALL CHESS CLUB NY 123
JERSEY SHORE HS CHESS LEAGUE NJ 119
CHESS CLUB AND SCHOLASTIC CTR MO 116
SAN DIEGO CHESS CLUB CA 114
LOS ANGELES CHESS CLUB CA 70
HAMILTON ELEM SCH CHESS CLUB MI 63
Scholastic and Youth Membership Standings
Name State Count
SILVER KNIGHTS VA 525
SUCCESS CHESS SCHOOL CA 353
WESTERN PA YOUTH CHESS CLUB PA 349
TRI-STATE CHESS NY 261
LONG ISLAND CHESS NUTS NY 249
EN PASSANT CHESS CLUB TX 189
Member Standings
Name State Count
DOCKERY, JOHN T FL 66
CAMPBELL, TIM V MO 39
BERRY, FRANK K OK 31
STALLINGS, JAY S CA 31
KRANICH RITTER, TANIA FL 28
DAILY, NANCY OR 24
THOMAS, KENNETH NJ 20
NAVARRO, DANIEL A TX 17
RYAN, BEN J TX 17
DELAPAZ, FELICIANO TX 16
PCT Gain Standings
State Dec10 Dec11 PCT
VT 207 261 26.1
DC 190 232 22.1
RI 247 292 18.2
VA 2694 3043 13.0
WV 278 313 12.6
CT 1164 1302 11.9
IA 634 706 11.4
OK 338 368 8.9
NE 294 320 8.8
KY 1467 1584 8.0
Membership Appreciation Program (MAP)
Final 2011 standings. The MAP program continues in 2012. See details at main.uschess.org/go/MAP. Top standings will appear every two months in Chess Life.
Apr. 20-22, 2012 All-Girls National Championships presented by the
Kasparov Chess Foundation in association with the Renaissance
Knights Chess Foundation & USCF
See Nationals.
Apr. 27, North Shore Chess Center Lantern Light Chess (QC)
Apr. 28, North Shore Chess Center
Apr. 29, North Shore Chess Center U1200 Scholastic
See http://www.nachess.org/events for more info and online registra-
tion.
May 24-28, 25-28, 26-28 or 27-28, 21st annual Chicago Open
See Grand Prix.
July 20-22 or 21-22, 5th annual Chicago Class
See Grand Prix.
Indiana
Every Second Saturday of the Month
4SS, G/61d5. Donatos Pizza, 825 W. 10th St., Indianapolis. Reg.: 11-
11:30AM, Rd 1, 11:40AM. $$:b/20 1st $200; 2nd $100; Class (A, B,) (C,
D, E, Unr) $70 each. Prizes increased if + 20. EF: $27 - $5.00 BD month,
- $5.00 for any state association (except ISCA), OCCC Memb.req'd Memb.
includes magazine+. FIDE Titled Players Free. Ent: Donald Urquhart, 501
N. East St. # 802, Indianapolis, IN 46204. Info: at 317-634-6259 or e-
mail akakarpov@att.net. 3 entries in a class req'd for that class prize
to be awarded. Chess Magnet School JGP.
Orange Crush Chess Club Friday Night Blitz (QC)
Burger King, 410 E. Morris St. (E. Morris St. and S. East St.). Show your
OCCC card for free upsize. Reg.: 6-6:25pm, starts at 6:30pm. Type: 3 RR
Quad, G/5d2, QC. EF: $8.00, $$4-Quad 1st $25.00. Ent: Donald Urquhart,
501 N. East St., #802, Indianapolis, IN 46204. Info: Don at 317-634-6259
or email akakarpov@att.net.
See Grand Prix.
Mar. 24, Evansville Octos III
3-SS, G/90, d/5. 8-man sects (by rating). Noble Romans, 2403 Washing-
ton Ave., Evansville, IN 47714, 812-477-5347. EF: $25, Reg.: 10:15-10:45.
1st Rd.: 11:00, others ASAP. PF (b/8 sect): $100, 55,35,) No requested
byes. Reg. ENTRIES: Craig L. Hines, 613 North Park Dr., Evansville, IN
47710, 812-423-2996, Mrsci2740@hotmail.com, NS, NC, W.
May 24-28, 25-28, 26-28 or 27-28, 21st annual Chicago Open (IL)
See Grand Prix.
July 20-22 or 21-22, 5th annual Chicago Class (IL)
See Grand Prix.
Iowa
See Grand Prix.
Mar. 24-25, TNT FIDE Rating Tournament
5 Rounds SS-Dual Rated-FIDE & USCF. Gentlemen Chess Club, 1101 W.
4th St., Davenport, IA 52801. Reg. Onsite: 8:30AM-9:30AM, Sat., March
24, 2012. Sections: Open to players with FIDE rating, USCF rating, or
unrated. EF: $50.00. FREE for players with FIDE or USCF rating of 2200
and over. Prizes (Based on 14): 1st: $150, 2nd: $100; U1800 $75, $25
Best Unrated FIDE: $50. Prizes will be adjusted up based on atten-
dance. Time Control for all 5 rounds: Game/90 + 30 sec cumulative
increment per move. Round Times: Sat., March 24; 1st Rd. 10:00AM, 2nd
Rd.: 3:00PM, 3rd Rd.: 7:30PM, Sun., March 25; 4th Rd.: 10:00AM, 5th Rd.:
3:00PM. Entries: Advanced entries with entry fees quoted above must
be postmarked by March 23rd. All entries postmarked after this date or
submitted onsite will incur an additional $10. Make checks payable to Bill
Broich. Mail entries to: Bill Broich, 7149 Wilshire Blvd., Windsor Heights,
IA 50324. Questions/information: broich01@yahoo.com. Other infor-
mation: One 1/2 - Pt Bye will be allowed in Rds. 1-4. Request for Byes
must be submitted during registration or by the end of Rd. 1. USCF
March 2012 Rating List will be used for pairing purposes. FIDE rules will
be used.
Apr. 20-22 or 21-22, 6th Annual Okoboji Open, Reserve (U1600) &
Scholastics (K-12)
See Grand Prix.
Apr. 28, 2012 Iowa Class Championships
4-SS, Divided into Classes: M-X-A, B, C, & D/under. Players may play
up one class. Some sections may be combined. All: G/75, T/D/5.
Clarion/Highlander Convention Center, NE Side Exit 246 of I-80, Iowa City,
IA 52245. Reg.: 8:15 to 9:00AM. Rds.: 9:30 AM-2:30-5:00 -7:30 PM. EF:
$20.00 if rcv'd by 04/26, $30.00 at site. Prize Info: Class prizes: 1st place
$45.00 + Trophy, 2nd place $30. U.S. Chess Federation (USCF) member-
ship required. On-Site Available. IASCA membership required, $15, $10
Jr. or Sr. On-Site Available. Send EF to: IASCA c/o Mark Capron, 3123
Juniper Dr., Iowa City, IA 52245. mcapron243@mchsi.com. PH#
319.321.5435. Additional Info: Annual IASCA meeting scheduled at 1 PM.
See Grand Prix.
Kansas
See Grand Prix.
Kentucky
See Grand Prix.
Mar. 24, Knights of Northern Kentucky Scholastic Chess Tourna-
ment
5 Rounds, G/30 Rounds 1-3, G/45 Rounds 4-5. Rated (USCF member) $15
and Non-rated/Novice $10 before 3/17/2012. RD 1 starts at 9:30 AM,
RD 2-5 ASAP. Prizes: Top 25% of each section get trophies in both rated
and non-rated/novice, sections are K-1, K-3, K-5, K-8, K-12 and will
combine and divide depending on entries. All participants get a memento
of the day. Location: Walton-Verona High School/Middle School, 30
School Rd., Walton, KY 41094. Contact: Linda Fritz, fritzlinda@aol.com,
859.630.2694. See website for more info: www.knightschess.org.
Apr. 20-22, 4th Annual WKU Open
See Grand Prix.
June 9-10, 2012 Kentucky Open
See Grand Prix.
Maine
Mar. 17, Maine State Scholastic Individuals Tournaments
Individuals: HS (Championship and Under 1200 Sections); JHS (one sec-
tion); and Elementary (K-3 and K-6 Sections). All sections four rounds,
G/60. Pre-registration (EF $10); or register on-site (EF $15). All individ-
uals event sections are USCF-rated. Non-USCF members can obtain
memberships with entry. Download information and entry forms for
all events at: http://ChessMaine.net, or contact Ron Lewis, evenings
207-781-3962 or email at raltiger@aol.com.
Mar. 17, Sidekick Quads 8
University of Maine, Orono. Adults-only USCF-rated (EF $15) and non-
rated quads (EF $10) tournament, G/30, register on-site; no prizes, all
net proceeds to benefit Maine Scholastic Chess. Enter at site (8:30 -
9:00AM) or for pre-registration and additional information visit:
http://ChessMaine.net.
Maryland
Mar. 16&30, Catonsville Friday Knight Quick #135 & #136 (QC)
5SS, G/12, d3. EF: $8, club members $5. Reg.: 7:30pm. Rds.: 8, 8:30, 9,
9:30, 10. $$b/24 1st=$50, 2nd=$25, U1850 $12. Website: http://my
site.verizon.net/vze12d59q/. Bloomsbury Community Center, 106 Blooms-
bury Ave., Catonsville, MD 21228. Info: Joe Summers 410-788-1009,
josephas2@verizon.net.
Mar. 17, Cecil County Chess Club Quads
All levels welcome! 3 Rd. Quads, Fairgreen Senior Community Apartments,
100 Greenway, Perryville, MD 21903. Game 90. EF: $20. $$GTD: $50. Reg.:
9-9:45 AM. Rds.: 10 AM, 1:30 PM, 5 PM. ENT: 302-740-3442, KevinJPy-
tel@aol.com. INFO: Free coffee and light refreshments! NS. W.
Apr. 7, Catonsville Saturday Tornado
4SS, G/55;d5. EF: $20 by 4/6 mail or online, $25 at door, Under 18 $5
off. Rds.: 10:00-12:45-3:00-5:15. Reg.: 9:15am. Bloomsbury Community
Center, 106 Bloomsbury Ave., Catonsville, MD 21228. Two Sections: Open
$$b/24: $125-$75-$50 U1950 $45 U1700 $45. Reserve U1500 $$b/18:
$100-$50-$35 U1300 $30 b/4 U1150 $30 b/4. Bye: 1-4, max 1. Online
Reg: http://mysite.verizon.net/vze12d59q. Ent: Joe Summers, 1201
Daniels Ave., Balt, MD 21207. Include USCF ID, rating and section. Info:
josephas2@verizon.net.
See Grand Prix.
Apr. 27-29 or 28-29, 2012 Maryland Open
See Grand Prix.
Jul. 28-Aug. 1, 2012 Washington International
See Grand Prix.
Massachusetts
Mar. 28-Apr. 25, Evert Siiskonen Memorial
5SS, G/110, t/d5. Wachusett CC, McKay Campus School, Room C159, Fitch-
burg State University, 67 Rindge Rd., Fitchburg, MA 01420. EF: $1 per game
played; free to Wachusett CC members. Reg.: 7-7:10 p.m. Rds.: 7:15 p.m.
Byes: 1-4, limit two. Prizes: chess books to winner(s). Info: George Mir-
ijanian, 176 Oak Hill Rd., Fitchburg, MA 01420, miriling@aol.com, 978-
345-5011. Website: www.wachusettchess.org. Online ratings as of
March 28 will be used. W. Chess Magnet School JGP.
Mar. 31, 2012 CT Open State Championship (CT)
See Grand Prix.
Mar. 31, 2012 New Haven Scholastic Championship (CT)
See Connecticut.
Apr. 15, 22nd Massachusetts G/60 Championship
See Grand Prix.
See Grand Prix.
See Grand Prix.
Michigan
Mar. 23-25 or 24-25, 13th annual Pittsburgh Open (PA)
See Grand Prix.
Mar. 31, Thinkers Challenge #5
4 Rds. G/45. This is a scholastic tournament with an adult section. Ford-
UAW Bldg., 151 E. Jefferson Ave., Detroit, MI 48214. Early Online
Registration $15 (weplaychess.webs.com), At the door registration
$20. Unrated players divisions grades K-1, 2-3, 4-6, 7-12, Rated play-
ers divisions U600, U900, U1200, Open, Adult Section (Unrated and
Rated players combined). 1st-5th place trophies for all scholastic sec-
tions. For more information go to: weplaychess.webs.com or call Tom
Nelson (303) 880-4332.
May 11-13, 12-13 or 13, 9th Great Lakes Chess Open
5SS, U1000 4SS. McCamly Plaza Hotel, 50 Capital Ave., SW, Battle Creek,
MI 49017. EF: (Add $10 after May 5, $15 at site) Open: 3 day $53; 2 day
$52, IM/GMs free!(EF deducted from winnings). U1700: 3 day $43; 2 day
$42. U1000: $20. USCF and a State membership required(can be pur-
chased on site). Reg: 3 day: Fri. 5-6:30. 2 day and 1 day: Sat. 9-11. TC:
3 day: Rds 1-3 G/2; Rds 4-5 40/2 SD/30. 2 day: Rds 1-2, G/60; Rd 3 G/2;
Rds 4-5 40/2 SD/30. 1 day (U1000): G/45. Rds.: 3 day: Fri. 7, Sat. 12-
4:30, Sun. 10-3:30. 2 day: Sat. 11:30-2-4:30; Sun. 10-3:30. 1 day:
11:45-2-3:45-5:30. Prizes: Open:(b/36) $1500-700, Top X-A-U1800/Unr
$250. U1700: (b/36) $400-250, Top C-D-U1200/Unr $125. U1000:
(b/22)$125-$75, Top 700-899, U700/Unr $50 (Unrated eligible for top/Unr
prizes only). Special Events: Blitz tournament: 7 Saturday. EF: 10 (85%
payout). IM/Gm Lecture-$10. Hotel: McCamly Plaza Hotel, Chess rate
$91/night, must reserve by Apr. 9th. Parking $8 a day. Info and Entries:
Stan Beckwith, 269-964-2927, 84 Bond Ave., Battle Creek, MI 49037-1907.
See Grand Prix.
Minnesota
Apr. 13-15, 2012 National High School (K-12) Championship
See Nationals.
See Grand Prix.
Missouri
Mar. 10, Mizzou Quads
3RR, G/70 d/5. UMC Memorial Union room S203, 518 Hitt St., Columbia,
MO. Directions: From I-70 exit 126, south on Providence, east on Rollins,
north on Hitt. Reg.: 9:30-10:15. Rds.: 10:30, 1:15, 4:00. EF: $20 if mailed
by 3/3, $25 at site; site entries cash only. $70 first prize each quad.
Entries/info: Charles Ward, 2400 Cimarron Dr., Columbia, MO 65203;
czar8196@gmail.com. W.
Mar. 16-18 or 17-18, 16th annual Mid-America Open
See Grand Prix.
Mar. 31, 2012 Kansas City Chess Club Championship
The Kansas City Chess Club, 7667 NW Prairie View Rd., Kansas City, MO
NO TOURNAMENTS IN YOUR AREA?
WHY NOT ORGANIZE ONE?
Do you need to go out of town for tournament play? Would you and others in your area
like the convenience of an occasional event closer to home? Organize one!
Its not much work to hold a small tournament, and there is little risk if you use a low-
cost site and avoid guaranteed prizes. You might even make a profit! Either a based-on
Swiss with projected prizes up to $500, a Quad format, or a trophy tournament will vir-
tually guarantee taking in more in fees than you pay out in prizes.
The affiliation fee is just $40 a year. You will receive the annual rating supplement and
have access to the TD/Affiliate area of our website.
Remember, you can both run and play in a small event. Many of them wouldnt be held
if the organizer/TD couldnt play.
WANT TO KNOW MORE? Contact Joan Du Bois at joandubois@uschess.org.
Well be glad to help you be part of the promotion of American chess!
Tournament Life
64151. 4SS, G/60. Sat. 10:30/1/3:30/6. EF: $20. Reg.: 10AM. Club
Champion Trophy Open/U1800/U1600/U1300. Ent: Kenneth Fee, 1537
Baker St., Liberty, MO 64068. Questions: 816-399-3703. Req. Memb:
USCF & KC Chess Association. Sold onsite. Register online at:
www.kansascitychessclub.com.
Apr. 14-15, Saint Louis Open
See Grand Prix.
Apr. 28-29, Joplin Benefit Tournament
See Grand Prix.
See Grand Prix.
Nevada
Mar. 24, Nevada State Scholastic Championship Team & Individ-
ual Tournament (K-12)
Las Vegas Day School, 3275 Red Rock, Las Vegas, NV 89146 and is open
to any Nevada school age resident. USCF membership is required. Reg-
istration information can be obtained from Gale Winds at gwinds@lvds.
com. Schedule: 6 rounds for K-3 and K-5 with time control of G/30. K-
8 and K-12 first 2 rounds G/30 and last 3 rounds G/45. The first round
begins at 9:30a.m. Trophies for top players K-3, K-5, K-8 and K-12, top
upset and top girl in all categories, medals for 3 or more wins and sou-
venirs for all participants. Early registration of $30. 00 is due by March
9, Late registration $40. At door $50.00. Free registration for early
entries outside of Clark County.
Apr. 6-8, 12 Annual Reno-Larry Evans Memorial (formerly Far West
Open)
See Grand Prix.
June 14, 2012 U.S. Game/10 Championship (QC)
See Nationals.
June 15, National Open Scholastic Trophy Tournament
5-SS, Game/30. Riviera Hotel and Casino, 2901 Las Vegas Boulevard
South, Las Vegas 89109. Open to players 18 and under. In 3 sections:
U1800, U1200, and U800. Unrateds in the U1200 section and all players
in the U800 section must be age 11 or under. Trophies to top 5 in each
section, top 2 in each odd 200 point rating group and unrated. EF: $33
by 5/28, $39 by 6/13, $45 on site. REG.: 9-9:30 a.m. RDS.: 10-11:30-1-
2:30-4. Blitz 6:30 p.m. ($15 by 5/28 $20 on site) HR: $59 single or double
($89 Friday and Saturday nights). 1-800-634-6753 or (702) 734-5110. ENT:
National Open, PO Box 90925, Henderson, NV 89009-0925, on line
www.VegasChessFestival.com or fax at (702) 933-9112. NS. NC. W.
June 15-17 or 16-17, 2012 National Open
See Nationals.
June 16-17, International Youth Championship
5SS, Game/60. Riviera Hotel and Casino, 2901 Las Vegas Boulevard
South, Las Vegas 89109. In 4 Sections by age: 14 and Under, 14 and
Under Reserve (rated below 1100), 9 and Under, 9 and Under Reserve
(rated below 900). Trophies to top 10 in each section plus class trophies
and team trophies. 1st Place in each section wins a Computer loaded
with Chess Software, 2nd-4th win chess prizes valued at 250-150-100.
Unrated players may not win 1st in Reserve sections. EF: $59 by 5/27,
$69 by 6/13, $80 on site. 1/2 point bye in any round (limit 2) if requested
in advance. REG.: 8-9 a.m. RDS.: 10-1-4, 10-1. Blitz 6/15 at 6:30 p.m. ($15
by 5/28 $20 on site) HR: $59 single or double ($89 Friday and Saturday
nights). 1-800-634-6753 or (702) 734-5110. ENT: National Open, PO Box
90925, Henderson, NV 89009-0925, on line www.VegasChessFestival.com
or fax at (702) 933-9112. NS. NC. W.
New Hampshire
Apr. 21, New Hampshire Quick Chess Championship (QC)
See Grand Prix.
See Grand Prix.
New Jersey
Fair Lawn Saturday Quads
Schedule through June 30, 2012. 3RR, G/60 for quads with rating above
1000; G/30 for quads with rating below 1000 or unrated ICA. 9 - 10 SAD-
DLE RIVER RD., FAIR LAWN, NJ 07410. EF: $25 Prizes: $50 to 1st place
in each quad. Reg.: 1-1:15 PM. Rds.: 1:15 PM-3:30-5:40 (rating above
1000). Rds.: 1:10 PM-2:20-3:30 (rating below 1000 or unrated). Info: Diana
201-797-0330, diana@icanj.net; www.icanj.net. EVERY SATURDAY. ALL:
ICA provides breakfast & lunch.
Mar. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30, Wednesday G/90 (4SS, Monthly) and Chess Les-
sons
Round starts: 7pm. EF: $30/$25. Prizes: 70% of EF. Prizes: 1st, 2nd &
Class Prizes (based on the # of participants). 1 bye available, commit at
least two days before the next round. No re-entry. GMs free entry ($20
deducted from prizes). Chess Mates Corporation, 1531 Irving St., Rah-
way, NJ 07065. Info: Arthur Macaspac (732)499-0118/(760)583-8429.
www.chessmatesnj.com. Lessons: 5pm- 6:30pm, Under 1600 USCF.
Lessons fees: Monthly: $95 (Monday and Wednesday)/Daily: $15.
Mar. 5, 12, 19, 26, Chess Mates Saturday Quad G/45
3 RR, G/45. Chess Mates Corporation, 1531 Irving St., Rahway, NJ
07065. Prizes: $60 to first in each section. GMs - Free entry. ($15
deducted from prizes). EF: $20, $15 Members. Reg.: 12:30-1:15pm.
Rds.: 1:30pm, 3:15pm, 5pm. Info: Arthur Macaspac (732)499-0118/
(760)583-8429. www.chessmatesnj.com.
Mar. 6, 13, 20, 27, Sunday Camp and Scholastic Tournament
Sunday Chess Camp: 10am 6pm. Registration fee: $85 members /
$95 Non-members. Snacks and lunch included. Quad G/30: 3pm-6pm EF:
$15/non-member and $10/member. Prize per Quad: 1st Place: Trophy
or $25. Chess Mates Corporation, 1531 Irving St., Rahway, NJ. Info: Arthur
Macaspac (760)583-8429/(732)499-0118. www.chessmatesnj.com.
Mar. 6, 13, 20, 27, Sunday Open Blitz (G/5) (QC)
RR, start: 7pm. Prizes: 80% of EF 1st, 2nd, & Class Prizes: based on the
# of participants. GMs - Free entry ($15 deducted from prizes). Chess
Mates Corporation, 1531 Irving St., Rahway, NJ. Info: Arthur Macaspac
(760)583-8429/(732) 499-0118. www.chessmatesnj.com.
Mar. 7, S. Jersey/Philly Wednesday Quicks G/10 (QC)
G/10. Wednesdays 7-9:30 p.m. Located at CoffeeWorks at the Voorhees
Town Center, 8109 Town Center Blvd., Voorhees, NJ 08043. Instruction,
analysis and Reg.: 6:30-7:00. EF: $10. $$ 1st, 2nd, and 3rd and best
game under 1600 player. More information: call 703-989-6867, email
dgorman@darsmemail.com.
Mar. 7, 14, 21, 28, Monday Quad G/30 and Chess Lessons
3RR, Rds.: 7pm, 8:15pm, 9:30pm. EF: $20/$15. Prizes: $60 to first in each
section. GMs - Free entry. ($15 deducted from prizes). Chess Mates
Corporation, 1531 Irving St., Rahway, NJ. Info: Arthur Macaspac (760)583-
8429/(732)499-0118. www.chessmatesnj.com. Chess Lessons: 5pm -
6:30pm, Under 1600 USCF. Lessons fees: Monthly: $95 (Monday and
Wednesday) and Daily: $15.
Mar. 10, King's Chess Club Quads
Morning quads and afternoon quads, G/30, Kindergarten-undergradu-
ate (scholastic, youth, and young adult memberships). Bethlehem Church,
758 Route 10, Randolph, NJ 07869. EF: None. Reg.: 9-9:20 am., 1st rd.
9:40. Arr. by noon to reg. only for afternoon quads. Medal to each quad
winner. Info: Bethlehem Church 973-366-3434 or Bob McAdams 973-694-
3988, rwm@fambright.com. Weather closings will be posted on church
homepage at www.bethlehemchurch.org by 7:30am.
Mar. 16-18 or 17-18, Long Island Open (NY)
See Grand Prix.
Mar. 17, St. Patricks Day
See Grand Prix.
Mar. 18, Westfield Quads
3 RR, G/40 T/D 5s, G/45. Westfield Y, 220 Clark St., Westfield, NJ 07090.
Prizes: $50 to first in each section. EF: $20, $15 Members. Reg.: 1:30-
2:15 p.m. Rds.: 2:30-4:20-6:10 p.m. Info: Todd Lunna 732-526-7163,
lunnaco@aol.com, www.westfieldchessclub.com.
Mar. 24, Hamilton Chess Quads
3RR, 40/80 15/30 15/30. Full K. Ray Dwier Recreation Center, Bldg. 392,
Groveville, NJ 08620. Quads open to all. EF: $10. Prizes: $25 per Quad.
Reg.: 9-10:30/am. Rds.: 10:30/am-1:30/pm-4:30/pm. NJ State Chess
Federation, no dues magazine Subscription per year, OSA. NS, NC, W.
Mar. 24, North Jersey Quads (Limited to Class A and below.)
Courtyard Marriott, 15 Howard Blvd., Mt Arlington: Off exit #30 of Rt.
#80. Adult Quads: 3RR, G/90, EF: $16 early at EntryFeesRus.com or
$20 cash at site by 10am. $$G: $40 or trophy. Rds.: 10-1-4. Also Kids
Quads: for K-8 players, 3RR, G/45, EF: $15 early. EntryFeesRus.com or
$20 cash at site by 10am. $$G: $40 or Trophy, all kids get awards. 1st round
10am then ASAP with lunch break. Info: call Ken at 908-619-8621 or email,
acn@goes.com. Past Quad Quitters may not play. NS, NC, W.
Mar. 25, Westfield Spring Scholastic
Westfield Y, 220 Clark St., Westfield, NJ 07090. K-12 3 Sections: Open,
Under 1250, Under 750. Open: 3 SS, G/40 T/D 5 s, G/45. Trophies to top
5 in each section. EF: $20, $15 at site $30, $25 members. Reg.: 2-2:30
p.m. Rds.: 2:45-4:25-6:05 p.m. Under 1250: 4 SS, G/25 T/D 5s, G/30.
Trophies to top 5 in each section. EF: $20, $15 Members at site $30, $25
members. Reg.: 2-2:30 p.m. Rds.: 2:45-4:00-5:15-6:30 p.m. Under 750:
4 SS, G/25 T/D 5s, G/30. Trophies to top 5 in each section. EF: $20, $15
Members at site $30, $25 Members. Reg: 2-2:30 p.m. Rds: 2:45-4:00-5:15-
6:30 p.m. Tiebreaks for trophies. Info: Todd Lunna 732-526-7163,
lunnaco@aol.com, www.westfieldchessclub.com. Send advance entries
to: Todd Lunna, 36 Maple Dr., Colts Neck, NJ 07722 by March 21, 2012.
Make checks payable to Westfield Chess Club.
Apr. 1, Dr. David Ostfeld Memorial ICA Spring 2012 Open Champi-
onship
See Grand Prix.
Apr. 1, Dr. David Ostfeld Memorial ICA Spring 2012 Scholastic
Championship in 5 sections
4SS, EVERYONE PLAYS 4 GAMES, ALL PLAYERS WITH 2.5 PTS OR MORE
WILL RECEIVE A TROPHY! USCF Memb Req'd For Sections 3, 4 AND 5. Info:
201-287-0250 or 201-833-1741, www.icanj.net Email: Diana@icanj.net.
ADV EF (pmk by Mar 28th) $25 at site $30 Reg ends 1/2 hr before 1st
rd. Late entrants will receive a 1/2 pt bye for rd 1. BERGEN ACADEMY,
200 HACKENSACK AVE., HACKENSACK, NJ 07601. In 5 Sections: Section
1 Junior Novice (not USCF rated): Open to unr players K thru 2nd grade.
Rds.: First Round 10:15 AM then ASAP. Section 2 Novice: Open to unr
players K thru 4th grade. Rds.: First Round 10:00 AM then ASAP. Sec-
tion 3 G/45 Reserve: Open to players rated below 800 and unr players
K thru 12th grade. Rds.: 9:45 AM, 11:30, 1:15, 3:00 PM. Section 4
G/45: Open to players rated below 1200 and unr players K thru 12th grade.
Rds.: 9:45 AM, 11:30, 1:15, 3:00 PM. Section 5 G/60: Open to players
rated below 1700 and unr players K thru 12th grade. Rds.: 9:45 AM, 12:00,
2:15, 4:30 PM. ENT: Make EF and/or USCF Memb chks payable To: Inter-
national Chess Academy Mail. To: Diana Tulman, 28 Canterbury Ln., New
Milford, NJ 07646.
Apr. 1, Westfield Quads
Apr. 1, 8, 15, 22, 29, Sunday Advance Lesson & Open Blitz (G/5/RR)
(QC)
Advance Lesson (Above 1600 USCF Rating): 6:15pm-7:15pm, $15. Blitz
start: 7:30pm. EF: $20/$15. Prizes: 80% of EF 1st, 2nd, & Class Prizes:
based on the # of participants. GMs - Free entry ($15 deducted from
prizes). Chess Mates Corporation, 1531 Irving St., Rahway, NJ. (732) 499-
0118. www.chessmatesnj.com.

NATIONAL
OPEN
JUNE 1517 OR 1617
JUNE 14 5:00 P.M.
NATIONAL OPEN NATIONAL OPEN
U. S. GAME / 10
CHAMPIONSHIP
U. S. GAME / 10
CHAMPIONSHIP
6 Round Swiss in 8 Sections H USCF & FIDE Rated H 200 Grand Prix Points
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SIMULS H SCHOLASTICS H GRANDMASTER CHESS CAMP
INTERNATIONAL YOUTH CHAMPIONSHIP H LECTURES H AND MORE
IVIERA
Apr. 1, 8, 15, 22, 29, Sunday Camp and Quad G/30
Sunday Chess Camp: 10am-6pm. Fees: $80/$90. Snacks and lunch
included. Quad: G/30: Starts at 3pm. EF: $15/$10, camp participants are
free. Prize per Quad: 1st Place: Trophy or $35. Chess Mates Corpora-
tion, 1531 Irving St., Rahway, NJ. (760)583-8429/(732)499-0118. www.
chessmatesnj.com.
Apr. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30, Chess Lessons & Monday Quad G/30
Chess Lessons: 5pm-6:30pm, Under 1600 USCF. Fees: Monthly: $95
(Monday and Wednesday) and Daily: $15. Quad: 3RR, Rds.: 7pm, 8:15pm,
9:30pm. EF: $20/$15. Prizes: $60 to first in each section. GMs - Free entry.
($15 deducted from prizes). Chess Mates Corporation, 1531 Irving St.,
Rahway, NJ. (760)583-8429/(732)499-0118. www.chessmatesnj.com.
Apr. 3, 10, 17, 24, Girls Chess Lessons & Tuesday G/15 (U2000) (QC)
Chess Lessons: 5pm-6:30pm, Under 1600 USCF. Fees: Monthly/daily:
$50/$15. G/15: 4SS, Rds.: 7pm, 7:40pm, 8:20pm, & 9pm. EF: $20/$15.
Prizes: 80% of EF 1st, 2nd, & Class Prizes: based on the # of partici-
pants. Chess Mates Corporation, 1531 Irving St., Rahway, NJ. (760)-
583-8429, (732)-499-0118. www.chessmatesnj.com.
Apr. 4, S. Jersey/Philly Wednesday Quicks G/10 (QC)
See Grand Prix.
Apr. 4, 11, 18, 25, Chess Lessons & Wednesday G/90 (4SS, Monthly)
Lessons: 5pm-6:30pm, Under 1600 USCF. Fees: Monthly: $95 (Monday
and Wednesday)/Daily: $15. Monthly 4SS, Rd starts at 7pm. EF: $30/$25.
Prizes: 70% of EF. Prizes: 1st, 2nd & Class Prizes (based on the # of par-
ticipants). 1 bye available, commit at least two days before the next round.
No re-entry. GMs free entry ($20 deducted from prizes). Chess Mates Cor-
poration, 1531 Irving St., Rahway, NJ 07065. (732)499-0118/(760)583-
8429. www.chessmatesnj.com. Chess Magnet School JGP.
Apr. 7, Philadelphia Open Action Quads (PA)
See Pennsylvania.
Apr. 7, Philadelphia Open G/15 (QC) (PA)
See Pennsylvania.
Apr. 7, 14, 21, 28, Saturday Camp and Quad G/45
Saturday Chess Camp: 9am-1pm. Fees: $55/$60. Snacks and lunch
included. Quad: G/45. EF: $20/$15. Prizes: $60 to first in each section.
Rds.: 1:30pm, 3:15pm, 5pm. GMs - Free entry. ($15 deducted from
prizes). Chess Mates Corporation, 1531 Irving St., Rahway, NJ 07065. (732)
499-0118/(760)583-8429, www.chessmatesnj.com.
Apr. 8, Philadelphia Open Blitz & G/7 (QC) (PA)
See Pennsylvania.
Apr. 11, S. Jersey/Philly Wednesday Quicks G/10 (QC)
Apr. 22, Westfield Swiss #72 (QC)
5 SS, G/15 (QC). Westfield Y, 220 Clark St., Westfield, NJ 07090. $425
Guaranteed $125, $60, under 2100, under 1850, under 1600, under 1350
$60 each. EF: $35, $25. Reg.: 2-2:30 p.m. Rds.: 2:45-3:25-4:05-4:45-5:30
p.m. Info: Todd Lunna 732-526-7163, lunnaco@aol.com, www.westfield
chessclub.com.
Apr. 27-29 or 28-29, 2012 Maryland Open (MD)
See Grand Prix.
May 5, North Jersey Adults (Limited to Class A and below.)
Courtyard Marriott, 15 Howard Blvd., Mt. Arlington: Off exit #30 of Rt
#80. Adult Quads: 3RR, G/90, EF: $16 early at EntryFeesRus.com or $20
cash at site by 10 am. $$G: $40 or trophy. Rds 10-1-4. Kids Quads: for
K-8 players, 3RR, G/45, EF: $15 early EntryFeesRus.com or $20 cash at
site by 10am. $$G: $40 or Trophy, all kids get awards. 1st round 10am
then ASAP with lunch break. Info: call Ken at 908-619-8621 or email,
njchess64@yahoo.com. Past Quad Quitters may not play. NS, NC, W.
May 6, Westfield Quads
See Grand Prix.
May 26, U.S. Amateur K-8 East U1200
5-SS, G/30. Crowne Plaza Hotel, 110 Davidson Ave., Somerset, NJ, Tele-
phone 732-560-0500. In 3 Sections (U1200, U900, & U600). Trophies to
Top 10, Others win chess medallions. Unrated may not win first. Reg-
istration: Saturday May 26, 11am-12pm. Rounds: 12:30pm, then ASAP
with lunch break after round #2. EF: $29 if mailed by May 25 or paid online
via EntryFeesRus.com, EF: $40 cash at site. One 1/2 point bye allowed
if requested with EF. April Rating supplement used. Ent: Ken Thomas, 115
W. Moore St., Hackettstown, NJ 07840. Checks to NJSCF. Indicate grade
level. Info: 908-619-8621 or acn@goes.com. NS. NC. W.
May 26-28 or 27-28, 68th Annual U.S. Amateur East Championship
See Nationals.
June 29-July 3 (New date), 9th annual Philadelphia International
(PA)
See Grand Prix.
See Grand Prix.
New Mexico
Mar. 17-18, New Mexico Class Championships
at La Tienda, 7 Caliente Rd., Santa Fe, NM 87508 In Eldorado. Info and
map at latiendaeldorado.com, 5SS G/90 +5/d. Rds.: Sat 10, 1:45, 5, Sun
10, 1:45. $$ b/10 per section $150 each class: M/X, A, B, C, D, E and
below. Some sections may be merged depending on numbers. Class
champions A-E will be invited to represent NM in the annual match
against Colorado. Profits from this NM Class go towards team travel
expenses. Entry form & Flyer at: nmchess.org. $25 Entry Fee to Santa
Fe Rooks, 84 Moya Rd., Santa Fe, NM 87508. $30 if received after 3/15
or at the door Sat. 9:15-9:30. This is a 2012 New Mexico Cup Event. USCF
membership required. Chess Magnet School JGP.
New York
Mar. 10, 13th Annual Bruce Bowyer Memorial
See Grand Prix.
Mar. 11, 13th Annual Bruce Bowyer Memorial Scholastic Tourna-
ment
5SS, G/30. Hotel New Yorker. Open to all students thru grade 12, EF: $10.
$$Gtd: $200-$125-$75, U1800 $50, U1600 $40, U1400 $30, U1200 $25.
Trophy to winner, tiebreak order: Cumulative, Median, Solkoff. All play-
ers receive a medal. Reg.: 10:15-10:45. Rds.: 11am-12:30-2:30-4pm-5:30.
Entries MUST be received by MAR 1st! Ent: No door ents. Ck/MO
payable to: Pat Bowyer, c/o PAR Group Inc., 119 N. Park Avenue, Suite
303, Rockville Centre, NY 11570. Limited to first 70 players. Provide
name,school, USCF rating, ID#, & exp. PLEASE NOTE: Bring clocks
and sets, none will be provided. Info: pbowyer@bbowyer.org or Pat
Bowyer 516.641.4521.
Mar. 15, 4 Rated Games Tonight!
4-SS, G/25 + td/5 or G/30 + td/0. Chess Center at Marshall Club, 23
W. 10th St, bet 5-6 Ave., NYC: 212-477-3716. May be limited to 1st 36
entries. EF $35, Club membs $25, GMs $20 from prize. $$ (480 b/32 paid):
150-100-50, Top U2200/unr $95, U2000 $85. Limit 2 byes (1 bye if
U2000), commit by 8:15. Re-entry $15, counts half. Reg. ends 10 min.
before game. Rds. 7-8:15-9:30-10:45 pm. Phone entry often impossi-
ble! $5 extra if entering under 10 min. before game.
Mar. 15-Apr. 12, 5th Long Island Chess Club March Open
5SS, G/90 (d/5). United Methodist Church, 470 East Meadow Ave., East
Meadow, NY 11554. Open to all U-2300/unr. $(b/20): $150-100. Top U-
2000, U-1500/unr. $95 ea. Best upset $10. EF: $35. Non-LICC members
+$10. Reg.: 6:40-7:10 PM, no adv. ent., Rds.: 7:15 PM SHARP ea.
Thursday. 2 byes 1-5. Info: www.lichessclub.com. NS. Chess Magnet
School JGP.
Mar. 15-Apr. 12, Marshall Thursday Members-Only Swiss!
5-SS, G/115d5. Marshall CC, 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212 477-3716. Open
to MCC members only. EF: $30. ($450 b/20): $240-120, U2000 $90.
Reg.: 6:15-6:45. Rds.: 7PM each Thursday. Limit 2 byes, request by rd.
3. www.marshallchessclub.org. Chess Magnet School JGP.
Mar. 16-18 or 17-18, Long Island Open
See Grand Prix.
Mar. 17, Marshall Saturday G/60!
4-SS, G/55d5. Marshall CC, 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. ($360/24):
$160-80, U2000 $65, U1700 $55. EF: $40, members $20. Reg.: 11:15-11:45
am. Rds.: 12-2:30-4:45-7. One bye available, request at entry. www.mar
shallchessclub.org.
Mar. 17, Utica Four Seasons - Winter
4SS, Rds. 1-2 G/60; Rds. 3-4 G/90. Mohawk Valley Community College,
Exit 31, I-90, bear left, South on E. Genesee, (2.6 miles), left on Memo-
rial Highway (2.3 miles, left Sherman, right into MVCC, Payne Building
3rd Floor). EF: $30. Prices b/20: $200, 125, 75, Class 100. Reg.: 8:30-
9:15. Rds.: 9:30-12:00-2:15-5:30. Ent: Joe Ball, 310 Helfer Ln., Minoa,
NY 13116. 315-436-9008. Chess Magnet School JGP.
Mar. 18, 37th Binghamton Monthly Tournament
4SS, G/65 d/5. Prizes: $500 b/26 Open-$150-$100-$50, Reserve-$100-
$75-$25 (U1700). Trophies: 1-3 both sections. Advance Entry: Open-$35
Reserve-$25 (U1700) $5 more on site-cash only on site. Schedule: Reg-
istration on site 8:459:15 AM. Rounds: 9:30-12Noon-2:30-4:45. Free
USCF 90-day membership (call for details) Mail Entry: checks payable
to: Cordiscos Corner Store, 308 Chenango St., Binghamton, NY 13901,
(607) 772-8782, cordiscos@stny.rr.com. Chess Magnet School JGP.
Mar. 18, Marshall Open & U1500 Sunday Game/45!
5-SS, G/40d5. Marshall CC, 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. Two sec-
tions-you play only those in your section: A. Open ($360/24): $160-80,
U2100 $65, U1800 $55. B. U1500 ($240/16): $120-65, U1200 $55. EF:
$40, members $20. Reg.: 11:15-11:45 pm. Rds.: 12-1:45-4:00-5:45.
One bye available, request at entry. www.marshallchessclub.org.
Mar. 20, Marshall Masters!
See Grand Prix.
Mar. 23, Bobby Fischer Memorial Speed Chess Tournament!
See Grand Prix.
See Grand Prix.
Mar. 24, Marshall Saturday U1600!
4-SS, G/40d5. Marshall CC, 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212 477-3716. ($300
b/20): $160-80, U1300 $60. EF: $40, members $20. Reg.: 12:15-12:45.
Rds.: 1-2:45-4:30-6:15PM. One bye available, request at entry. www.mar-
shallchessclub.org.
Mar. 24-25 or 25, Marshall CC March U2300!
4SS, 30/85d5, SD/1d5. Marshall CC, 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212 477-3716.
EF: $45, Members $25. ($540 b/36): $240-120, U2000/unr $95, U1700
$85. Reg.: ends 12:15PM. Rds.: 2 schedules: 2 day, Rds. 12:30-5:30
PM each day; 1 day, (Rds. 1-2 G/25d5) 10-11:15AM-12:30-5:30 PM
Sun; both merge rd.3. Limit 2 byes, request at entry. NO RE-ENTRY.
www.marshallchessclub.org. Chess Magnet School JGP.
Mar. 26-Apr. 23, Marshall Monday U1600!
5-SS, G/85d5. Marshall CC, 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-3716. EF: $50,
members $30. ($450/20): $240-120, U1300 $90. Reg.: 6:15-6:45pm. Rds.
7 pm each Monday. Limit 2 byes, request by Rd 3. www.marshallchess-
Mar. 30 (not Mar. 23), Marshall Friday Quads!
3-RR, G/40d5. Open to all levels; Quads formed by rating. Marshall CC,
23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212 477-3716. EF: $25, members $20. $50 for each
winner. Reg.: 5:15-5:45. Rds.: 6-7:30-9PM.
See Grand Prix.
See Connecticut.
Mar. 31, Marshall Saturday U1800!
b/20): $160-80, U1500 $60. EF: $40, members $20. Reg.: 12:15-12:45.
shallchessclub.org.
Mar. 31-Apr. 1 or Apr. 1, Marshall March/April Grand Prix!
See Grand Prix.
Mar. 31-Apr. 1, 2012 Marchand Open (34th Annual)
See Grand Prix.
Apr. 2-23, 93rd Nassau Grand Prix
See Grand Prix.
Please join us again this year, at the
13th Annual
Bruce Bowyer Memorial
Chess Tournaments
March 10th & 11th, 2012
at the Hotel New Yorker
for the years friendliest chess event!
See TLA for details.
We look forward to seeing you again.
E-mail queries to: pbowyer@bbowyer.org
PROFESSIONAL PLAYERS
HEALTH AND BENEFITS FUND
Many Grand Prix tournament organizers will
contribute $1 per player to the Professional
Health & Benefits Fund. All Grand Prix
tournaments which participate in this pro-
gram are entitled to be promoted to the
next higher Grand Prix categoryfor exam-
ple, a six-point tournament would become
a 10-point tournament. Points in the top
category are promoted 50%.
Tournament Life
See Grand Prix.
Apr. 7, Marshall Saturday G/60!
$160-80, U2000 $65, U1700 $55. EF: $40, members $20. Reg.: 11:15-11:45
am. Rds.: 12-2:30-4:45-7. One bye available, request at entry. www.mar-
shallchessclub.org.
See Pennsylvania.
See Pennsylvania.
Apr. 8, Marshall Open & U1500 Sunday Game/45!
U2100 $65, U1800 $55. B. U1500 ($240/16): $120-65, U1200 $55. EF:
See Pennsylvania.
Apr. 11-May 8, Marshall Wednesday U1400!
members $30. ($450/20): $240-120, U1100 $90. Reg.: 6:15-6:45pm. Rds.
7 pm each Wednesday. Limit 2 byes, request by Rd 3. www.marshallchess-
Apr. 11-May 8, Marshall Wednesday U2000!
5-SS, 30/85d5, SD/1d5. Marshall CC, 23 W. 10th St., NYC. 212-477-
3716. EF: $50, members $30. ($450/20): $240-120, U1700 $90. Reg.:
6:15-6:45 pm. Rds. 7 pm each Wednesday. Limit 2 byes, request by Rd
Apr. 12, 10 Grand Prix Points Tonight!
See Grand Prix.
Apr. 13, Marshall Friday Quads!
winner. Reg.: 5:15-5:45. Rds.: 6-7:30-9PM.
Apr. 13-May 4, 12th Queens Team Championship
4-SS, G/115/d5. All Saints Lutheran Church, 164-02 Goethals Ave.,
Jamaica, NY 11432. Open to two player teams with April ratings aver-
aging U2000. $$100-50 to top 2 teams, $60 top U1700 team, $60 each
to top Board 1 and Board 2 scorers/10 teams (prizes raised or lowered
proportionally). One 1/2 point team bye permitted, which must be
requested at entry. If one player on team is unavailable, replacement
player must be rated lower and occupy board of player replaced, regard-
less of rating. EF: $35 per player, $25 QCC members. REG.: 7:30-8:00.
RDS.: 8:15 each Friday. ENT: Ed Frumkin, 445 E. 14th St #10D, New York,
NY 10009 (212-677-3224do not call on Thursday or Friday). More
detailed contact information at www.queens-chess.com. Mail entry by April
Apr. 14, Marshall Saturday U1400!
b/20): $160-80, U1100 $60. EF: $40, members $20. Reg.: 12:15-12:45.
Rds.: 1-2:45-4:30-6:15PM. One bye available, request at entry. www.mar
shallchessclub.org.
Apr. 14-15 or 15, Marshall April U2100!
EF: $45, Members $25. ($540 b/36): $240-120, U1850 $95, U1600 $85.
Reg.: ends 12:15PM. Rds.: 2 schedules: 2 day, Rds. 12:30-5:30 PM each
day; 1 day, (Rds. 1-2 G/35) 9:40-11:05AM-12:30-5:30 PM Sun; both
merge rd.3. Limit 2 byes, request at entry. NO RE-ENTRY. www.mar
shallchessclub.org. Chess Magnet School JGP.
Apr. 16-May 21, FIDE Mondays!!
to all players rated 1600 or above. EF: $50, $30 members. $$500 b/24:
$175-125-100, U2000 $100; 2 byes OK, commit before Round 4. Reg.:
6:15-6:45, Rds.: 7PM each Monday; FIDE rated. www.marshallchessclub.
org. Chess Magnet School JGP.
Apr. 17, Marshall Masters!
4-SS, G/25d5. Third Tuesday of every month. Marshall CC, 23 W. 10th St.,
NYC. 212-477-3716. Open to players rated over 2100 (plus all players scor-
ing over 50% in any MCC Open or U2300 tournament since the prior
month's Masters). EF: $40, members $30, GMs free. $$G250-150-100.
Prizes to U2400, U2300 and biggest upset. Reg.: 6:15-6:45 pm. Rds.: 7-
8:15-9:30-10:45. One bye available (Rd 1 or 4 only), request at entry.
www.marshallchessclub.org.
Apr. 19, 4 Rated Games Tonight!
W. 10th St., bet 5-6 Ave., NYC: 212-477-3716. May be limited to 1st 36
before game. Rds.: 7-8:15-9:30-10:45 pm. Phone entry often impos-
sible! $5 extra if entering under 10 min. before game.
Apr. 19-May 17, Marshall Thursday Members-Only Swiss!
to MCC members only. EF: $30. ($450 b/20): $240-120, U2000 $90.
Reg.: 6:15-6:45. Rds.: 7PM each Thursday. Limit 2 byes, request by rd.
b/20): $160-80, U1300 $60. EF: $40, members $20. Reg.: 12:15-12:45.
shallchessclub.org.
Apr. 21, Syracuse University April Open
4SS. Rds.: 1&2 G/60, Rds.: 3&4 G/90. (Syracuse University, Hall of
Languages, Room 101). EF: $30. Prizes: (b/20) $200, 125, Class 100. Reg.:
8:30-9:15. Rds.: 9:30, 12:00, 2:15, 5:30. Contact: Joe Ball 315-436-9008.
Apr. 21-22 or 22, Marshall CC April U2300!
EF: $45, Members $25. ($540 b/36): $240-120, U2000/unr $95, U1700
$85. Reg: ends 12:15PM. Rds.: 2 schedules: 2 day, Rds. 12:30-5:30 PM
each day; 1 day, (Rds. 1-2 G/25d5) 10-11:15AM-12:30-5:30 PM Sun; both
merge rd.3. Limit 2 byes, request at entry. NO RE-ENTRY. www.mar-
Apr. 22, 38th Binghamton Monthly Tournament
4SS, G/65 d/5. Prizes: $500 b/26 Open-$150-$100-$50, Reserve-$100-
$75-$25 (U1700). Trophies: 1-3 both sections. Advance Entry: Open-$35
Reserve-$25 (U1700) $5 more on site-cash only on site. Schedule: Reg-
istration on site 8:459:15 AM. Rounds: 9:30-12Noon-2:30-4:45. Free
USCF 90-day membership (call for details) Mail Entry: checks payable
to: Cordiscos Corner Store, 308 Chenango St., Binghamton, NY 13901,
(607) 772-8782, cordiscos@stny.rr.com. Chess Magnet School JGP.
Apr. 26, 4 Rated Games Tonight!
Apr. 27, Marshall Friday Quads!
winner. Reg.: 5:15-5:45; Rds.: 6-7:30-9PM. www.marshallchessclub.org.
See Grand Prix.
b/20): $160-80, U1500 $60. EF: $40, members $20. Reg.: 12:15-12:45.
shallchessclub.org.
Apr. 28-29 or 29, Marshall April Grand Prix!
See Grand Prix.
Apr. 30-May 28, Marshall Monday U1600!
members $30. ($675/30): $360-180, U1300 $135. Reg.: 6:15-6:45pm.
Rds. 7 pm each Monday. Limit 2 byes, request by Rd 3. www.mar-
May 3, 4 Rated Games Tonight!
May 5, Marshall Saturday G/60!
$160-80, U2000 $65, U1700 $55. EF: $40, members $20. Reg.: 11:15-11:45
am. Rds. 12-2:30-4:45-7. One bye available, request at entry. www.mar-
shallchessclub.org.
May 6, Marshall Open & U1500 Sunday Game/45!
U2100 $65, U1800 $55. B. U1500 ($240/16): $120-65, U1200 $55. EF:
May 10, 10 Grand Prix Points Tonight!
See Grand Prix.
May 11, Marshall Friday Quads!
winner. Reg.: 5:15-5:45; Rds.: 6-7:30-9PM. www.marshallchessclub.org.
May 12, Marshall Saturday U1400!
b/20): $160-80, U1100 $60. EF: $40, members $20. Reg.: 12:15-12:45.
Rds.: 1-2:45-4:30-6:15PM. One bye available, request at entry. www.mar
shallchessclub.org.
May 12-13, Marshall May U2100!
EF: $45, Members $25. ($540 b/36): $240-120, U1850 $95, U1600 $85.
Reg.: ends 12:15PM. Rds.: 2 schedules: 2 day, Rds. 12:30-5:30 PM each
day; 1 day, (Rds. 1-2 G/35) 9:40-11:05AM-12:30-5:30 PM Sun; both
merge rd.3. Limit 2 byes, request at entry. NO RE-ENTRY. www.mar
May 18-20 or 19-20, 20th annual New York State Open
See Grand Prix.
June 8-10 or 9-10, 18th Annual Northeast Open (CT)
See Grand Prix.
(PA)
See Grand Prix.
See Grand Prix.
North Carolina
pionships (FL)
See Grand Prix.
Mar. 30-Apr. 1, The Big Enchilada II
See Grand Prix.
Ohio
Mar. 3, House of Chess Open
4SS, G/45. House of Chess, Great Northern Mall, North Olmsted, OH (W
of JC Penny). Sections: Open, U1600. Reg.: 11-11:25 AM. Rds.: 11:30-
1:15-3:30-5:15. Prizes (b/25): Open 1st $200, 2nd $100; U1900 1st
$100; Reserve(U1600): 1st $100. Ent: $25, Club members $20. Info &
entries: House of Chess, Great Northern Mall, North Olmsted, OH 44070.
Phone: (440) 979-1133. E-mail: info@houseofchess.com. Web: http://
www.thehouseofchess.com/.
Mar. 10, Progress with Chess Monthly Open
4SS, G/30. Fairhill Center, 12200 Fairhill Rd., Cleveland, OH 44120. EF:
$20. Reg.: 9-9:45. Rds.: 10, 11:30, 1, 2:30. $350 Guaranteed. Open: (1st
$100, 2nd $50 U-2000 $50). Reserve U-1500: (1st $70, 2nd $40 U-
1000 $40). Entries: Progress with Chess, 12200 Fairhill Rd., Cleveland,
OH 44120. Info: www.progresswithchess.org. Contact: Mike Joelson 216-
321-7000.
13 annual PITTSBURGH OPEN
th
March 23-25 or 24-25, Doubletree Green Tree
$12,000 projected prizes, $9,000 minimum!
5 round s, $91 roomrates, free parking, free airport shuttle. Prizes
$12,000 based on 150 paid entries (re-entries &$50 off entries count
half), with 75% of each prize minimum guaranteed. In 5 sections:
OpenSection: Prizes $1500-800-400-200, clear/tiebreakwin$100
bonus, top U2300/Unr $700, U2200/Unr $600. FIDE rated, 60 GPP
U2100 Section(corrected): $1000-500-300-200, topU1900$400.
U1800 Section: $1000-500-300-200, top U1600 $400.
U1500 Section: $800-400-300-200, top U1300 $300.
U1200 Section: $400-250-150-100, trophy to top U1000, U800,
U600, Unrated.
Unrated limit: $150 in U1200, $300 U1500, or $500 in U1800.
Mar. 16, DCC #11 Quick 2012 (QC)
4SS, G/24, td5. Dayton Chess Club, 18 W. 5th St., Dayton, OH. Rds.:
7:30/8:30/9:30/10:30. One bye. Prizes based on entries. EF: $10 ($8 DCC
mbrs). Info: DCC.18W5@sbcglobal.net or 937-461-6283.
Mar. 16-17, 11th Annual Queen City Classic Chess Tournament
5SS, G/30. Paul Brown Stadium, Club West, Downtown Cincinnati, OH.
14 School Sections, includes rated and non-rated. Grade K Non-Rated,
1 Non-Rated, 2 Non-rated, 3 Non-rated, K-3 Open, 4 Non-Rated, 5 Non-
Rated, 6 Non-Rated, 4-6 below 700, 4-6 Open, 7-9 Non-Rated, 7-9 Open,
10-12 Non-Rated, K-12 Open. USCF membership is not required for the
non-rated and K-3 rated sections. Prizes: Trophies to all who score 3.5
points or higher, top three team trophies awarded and medals to all oth-
ers. EF: $35 early bird fee and $45 EF after February 17th. EF includes
lunch, t-shirt, program/score book, medal, and simul participation. Reg-
istration closes Wednesday, March 14, 2012. NO ON-SITE REGISTRA-
TIONS. Schedule: Friday, March 16, check in from 5-6 p.m. FREE SIMUL
at 6:30 p.m. for tournament participants, $20 for Non-participants.
SIMUL features International Master Irina Krush, International Grand-
masters Maurice Ashley and Gregory Kaidanov. March 17, check in
7-8:30 a.m., matches begin at 9:00 a.m. Grandmasters will be available
for questions and instructions all day. Entry/Info: 1-866-PS-CHESS (772-
4377) or www.queencityclassic.org.
Mar. 17, DCC Scholastics to Queen City Classic
Dayton Chess Club Scholastic Participants and Members contact Kay
Stanley at DCC.18W5@sbcglobal.net.
See Grand Prix.
Mar. 24-25, MOTCF (Midwest Open Team Chess Festival)
5SS, Rds. 1&2 G/90, td/5, Rds 3-5 G/150, td/5. Location: Dayton Chess
Club, 18 W. 5th St., Dayton, OH 45402. Four players/team plus one alter-
nate. Team ratings for pairings determined by average of highest four
ratings with imputed ratings for players rated more than 400 points below
team average. Reg.: Sat. Mar 24, 9-10:30am. Rds.: Sat 11, 3, & 7 - Sun
10 & 3:30. Entry fee: $160/team prior to Mar 24. $200/team at site.
Prizes: (Based on 28 teams). Open: $1,050-$750, U2000: $700, U1800:
$600, U1600 $500. Top boards (1-4) $75. Hotel: TBD/See website. Reg-
ister: Mail - Dayton Chess Club, 18 W. 5th St., Dayton, OH 45402 or at
www.daytonchessclub.com and use entry forms there as well. MC/V at
site, no checks. Info: DCC.18W5@sbcglobal.net or 937.461.6283. Chess
Magnet School JGP.
Mar. 31, DCC Scholastic Prep - Elementary Championship
Dayton Chess Club Scholastic Participants details and info at Day-
tonChessClub.com. or Kay Stanley at DCC.18W5@sbcglobal.net.
Mar. 31-Apr. 1, 2012 Ohio HighSchool Middle School Championship
6 Rd. Swiss, G/60 for all rds in Reserve Sections: G/60 for rds 1-3 and
G/90 for rds 4-6 for Championship Sections. Days Inn, 4742 Brecksville
Rd., Richfield, OH 44286, 330-659-6151, Room rates: $72/night. Free park-
ing, restaurant, bar, swimming pool, table tennis, billiards. Conveniently
located southeast of Cleveland, close to I-71, I-77, I-80. Sections: HS
Championship, Gr. 9-12; HS Reserve, (U1000 or unrated), 9-12; MS
Championship, K-8; MS Reserve, (U-800 or unrated) K-8. K-5 players
may play in the Middle School Sections. Trophies to players with 4
points or more. Trophies to top 5 teams, all sections. Rd. 1 - 10:00a.m.
Entry Fee: $35 by 3-23, $40 by 3-30 ($10 Free and Reduced Lunch Pro-
gram) Registrations must be received by 3-30. Progress with Chess,
12200 Fairhill Rd., Cleveland, OH 44120. Online payment available at:
www.progresswithchess.org. Info: Mike Joelson 216-321-7000.
Apr. 6, DCC #14 Quick 2012 (QC)
Apr. 7, House of Chess Open
4SS, G/45. House of Chess, Great Northern Mall, North Olmsted, OH (W
of JC Penny). Sections: Open, U1600. Reg.: 11-11:25 AM. Rds.: 11:30-
1:15-3:30-5:15. Prizes (b/25): Open 1st $200, 2nd $100; U1900 1st
$100; Reserve(U1600): 1st $100. Ent: $25, Club members $20. Info &
entries: House of Chess, Great Northern Mall, North Olmsted, OH 44070.
Phone: (440) 979-1133. E-mail: info@houseofchess.com. Web: www.the
houseofchess.com/.
Apr. 13, DCC #15 Quick 2012 (QC)
Apr. 14, Ohio Elementary Championships
5SS; Sections: Primary Championship (K-3), Elementary Championship
(K-6), Elementary Reserve (K-6 U750), plus K-6 Non-Rated section. G/30
d5 except Championship sections round 5 G/45 d5. Open to K-6 students
enrolled in Ohio schools or home-schooled in Ohio. Sycamore High
School, 7400 Cornell Rd., Montgomery (Cincinnati), OH 45242. EF: $25
through Mar 31, then $35 through Apr 11. ($10/$15 for federal lunch pro-
gram students.) No onsite registration. Awards: Individual trophies to
top 10 places in each section, and all scoring at least 3.5 and top five K-
3 Non-Rated who do not win a place trophy; team trophies to top 5 teams
in each section. Complete information at: www.Chessinnati.com. Con-
tact: Alan Hodge 513-697-6930, a.hodge195@gmail.com.
Apr. 14, Toledo Apr Swiss
Open, 4SS, Rnd 1 G/75, Rnds 2-4 G/90. The University of Toledo Health
Science Campus, Mulford Library Basement Caf, 3000 Arlington Ave.,
Toledo, OH 43614. Can split into 2 sections if enough players. EF: $20 by
4/12, $25 at site. Reg.: 9-10 a.m., Rds.: 10, 1, 4, & 7. Prizes: $360 b/20,
$100-50, 1st Class A ,B,C,D/Under $40, 1st U1600 $50. Ent: James
Jagodzinski, 7031 Willowyck Rd., Maumee, OH 43537. 419-367-9450.
Apr. 15, 2012 Athens Spring Open
3SS, G/90. Catalyst Cafe, 540 Union St., Athens, OH 45701. Sections:
Open, U1700. Sections will be combined if fewer than 6 players in each.
Entry Fee: $12 postmarked by 3/31, $15 at site, $$ Based on entries.
One 1/2-pt Bye available in Rds. 1-2 (request required prior to Rd 1). Reg-
istration: 8:30-9:15. Rounds: 9:30-1:30-5. Ent/Info: Matt Richardson,
1225 20th St. Parkersburg, WV 26101 (304) 485-1095, movchessclub@
gmail.com. NS, NC, W. Food and coffee available.
Apr. 20-21 & 27- 28, Dayton Chess Club 54th Championship
6SS, G/150, td5. USCF rated Open Tournament. Reg.: ends Apr 20,
7:45 p.m. EF: $15 adv/$25 after Apr 13. Rds.: Apr 20/21: 8pm, 10:30am,
5pm. Apr 27/28: 8pm, 10:30am, 5pm. Must be DCC mbr for 1+ month.
Trophies: 1st/2nd, u2000: 1st/2nd, u1600: 1st/2nd, u1200: 1st/2nd. Reg-
ister at: DCC or at www.DaytonChessClub.com or mail to Dayton Chess
Club, 18 W. 5th St., Dayton, OH 45402. Chess Magnet School JGP.
May 4-6 or 5-6, 48th Cincinnati Open
See Grand Prix.
May 12, Toledo May Swiss
Open, 4SS, Rnd. 1 G/75, Rnds. 2-4 G/90. The University of Toledo Health
Science Campus, Mulford Library Basement Caf, 3000 Arlington Ave.,
Toledo, OH 43614. Can split into 2 sections if enough players. EF: $20 by
5/10, $25 at site. Reg.: 9-10 a.m., Rds.: 10, 1, 4, & 7. Prizes: $360 b/20,
$100-50, 1st Class A ,B,C,D/Under $40, 1st U1600 $50. Ent: James
Jagodzinski, 7031 Willowyck Rd., Maumee, OH 43537. 419-367-9450.
See Grand Prix.
June 22-24 or 23-24, 2012 Columbus Open
See Grand Prix.
Oklahoma
Mar. 25, 10th Annual Red River Shoot Out
State Team match open only to OK and TX residents as defined as to where
USCF has your address. Two rounds, G/60+30 sec. Must have USCF rat-
ing and current USCF membership. Treasure Valley Casino, I-35 Exit 55
& Hwy 7, Davis, OK 73030. EF: $5, Masters Free, all registration on site.
Reg.: 9:30 to 10:45. Rds.: 11 and 2:30. For questions OK players
contact: Frank Berry at fkimberry@AOL.com; TX players contact:
Rob Jones at 214-212-9185, jonessoc@juno.com.
Mar. 31, Phillips 66 Quads
3 Round Swiss, 100/G with 15 sec add on. Reg.: 8:30-9:30. Rds.: 10, 2:30,
7 PM. EF: $50. Prizes: $200 to first in each Quad. (100% of entries
returned as prizes). La Quinta Inn, 1410A Washington Blvd., Bartlesville,
OK 74006 (918) 331-9151. Entries to: Steve Wharry, 8409 N. 70th East
Ave., Owasso, OK 74055, (918) 766-4124, email: chess@smwharry.net.
Oregon
Pennsylvania
Mar. 17, St. Patricks Day (NJ)
See Grand Prix.
Mar. 18, PCL March Quick Quads (QC)
3RR, G/15d3. Wm. Pitt Union, Univ. of Pittsburgh, 5th Ave. & Bigelow, Pitts-
burgh, PA 15213. EF: $10, $7 Jrs. $20 to 1st/quad. Reg.: 11-11:15am.
Rds.: 11:30am-Noon-12:30pm. Info: martinak_tom_m@hotmail.com,
412-908-0286. W.
Mar. 23-25 or 24-25, 13th annual Pittsburgh Open
See Grand Prix.
Mar. 24, 11th Annual Horizons for Youth Scholastic Spring Chess
Tournament
5SS, G/30, d/5. Northampton Community College, 3835 Green Pond Rd.,
Main Campus, College Center Building, Bethlehem, PA 18020. Reg.:
7:30-8:45am. Rds.: 9:30, 11, 12:30, 2, 3:30. Rated Section Age 18 and
under. Non-Rated Sections ages 14 and under. EF: $30 postmarked by
March 22nd, $35 later & on site. Prizes: Rated-Trophies-1st, 2nd, 3rd,
4th U1400, U1200, U1000, U800, U600, UNR. Non-Rated Trophies b/o age.
For rated section, please bring chess equipment. Random draw prizes
between rounds. Sudden death, if necessary for 1st-4th Non-Rated G/7,
d/3, G/6vG/4.5, d/0 Armageddon if necessary, tie breaks determines color
and clock placement. Ent: Online reg: forms at http://www.northamp
ton.edu/Community-Programs/Horizons-For-Youth/Special-Events-and-
Partnerships.htm or call Horizons for Youth at 610-861-4120. Please print
and mail form with payment (CC or check) to: Horizons for Youth,
3835 Green Pond Rd., Bethlehem, PA 18020. Info: Jane 610-861-4120,
Scott Zrinski (TD), sazrinski@gmail.com or Bruce Davis (Chief TD),
BDavis@lehighvalleychess.org.
Mar. 24, Tom Volkert Memorial
4-SS, G/30 + 5 sec delay. St. Luke's Ev. Luth. Church, 417 N. 7th St., Allen-
town, PA 18102. Two sections: OPEN: EF: $15. Prizes (gtd): $80 1st, $20
2nd. U1600: EF: $10. Trophy 1st place. Reg.: Noon - 1:15 PM. Rds.: 1:30-
3-4-5. Trophy playoff 6:15. No adv ent. Info: Eric C. Johnson ph 610-433-
6518 or www.freewebs.com/allentowncentercitychessclub. NS.
Apr. 1, 2012 PA State Game/29 Champ. (QC)
See Grand Prix.
Apr. 4-8, 5-8, 6-8 or 7-8, 6th annual Philadelphia Open
See Grand Prix.
Apr. 7, Philadelphia Open Action Quads
3RR, G/25, d/5, dual rated. Loews Philadelphia Hotel (see Philadelphia
Open). EF: $20, at site only. $$ 50 1st each section. Reg. ends 1:45 pm,
rds. 2, 3, 4.
Apr. 7, Philadelphia Open G/15 (QC)
4SS, G/15, d/3. Lowes Philadelphia Hotel (see Philadelphia Open). Prizes
$300 based on 20 entries, else in proportion: $100-50, U2100 $60,
U1800 $50, U1500/Unr $40. EF: $20, at site only. Reg. ends 10:15 pm,
rds. 10:30, 10:45, 11:30, 12:15. One half pt bye available, must commit
before rd. 2. Quick rated, but higher of regular or quick used for pairings
& prizes.
Apr. 7, W. Chester 1st Sat. Quads
Our 23rd year! 3RR, 40/75, sd/30, td/5sec. United Methodist Church,
129 S. High St., West Chester, PA. EF: $20; $40, $50 for 3-0. Reg.: 9am;
Rds.: 9:30, 1, 4:30. Info: WCCC1975@gmail.com.
Apr. 8, Philadelphia Open Blitz & G/7 (QC)
2 separate tournaments at Loews Philadelphia Hotel (see Philadelphia
Open). Blitz: G/5, no delay. G/7: G/7, d/2. Each is a 4-SS, double round
(8 games) with prizes $300 based on 20 entries, else in proportion:
$100-50, U2100 $60, U1800 $50, U1500/Unr $40. EF: $20, at site only.
Blitz: reg. ends 12:45 pm, rds. 1, 1:30, 2, 2:30. Game/7: reg. ends
10:15 pm, rds. 10:30, 11:15, 12, 12:45. Both: One pair of 1/2 pt byes avail-
able, must commit before rd 2. Quick rated, but higher of regular or quick
used for pairings & prizes.
Apr. 14, MasterMinds CC Swiss/Quads
Blair Christian Academy, 220 W. Upsal St., Philadelphia, PA. Quads:
40/75 SD/30 TD/5. EF: $20 cash, Perfect score winner $50 else $40. Rd.
1 10AM then asap. Scholastic SS, EF $5 rec'd by Thursday before, $15
at the door. 3 sections Rd. 1 10AM then asap: K-12 3SS, G/55 TD/5 1st,
2nd, 3rd, top under 1200, top unrated; K-8 4SS G/35 TD/5.1st, 2nd, 3rd,
top under 800, top unrated; K-6 4SS, G/35 TD/5.1st, 2nd, 3rd, top under
600, top under 400, top unrated. 1st & 2nd school & club trophies. All
Reg. ends 9:30am. Ent: MasterMinds CC, 36 E. Hortter St., Philadelphia,
PA 19119. Checks made payable to: MasterMinds CC. Info: Bradley
Crable, 215-844-3881, info@mastermindschess.org, or www.mastermind-
schess.org.
Apr. 15, PCL April Quick Quads (QC)
3RR, G/15d3. Wm. Pitt Union, Univ. of Pittsburgh, 5th Ave. & Bigelow, Pitts-
burgh, PA 15213. EF: $10, $7 Jrs. $20 to 1st/quad. Reg.: 11-11:15am.
Rds.: 11:30am-Noon-12:30pm. Info: martinak_tom_m@hotmail.com,
412-908-0286. W.
Apr. 21-22, 2012 PA State Amateur Champ.
Comfort Inn, 58 SR 93, West Hazleton, PA 18202, 1/2 mile from Exit 145
off I81. 2 sections: Champ (Sat & Sun): Open to U2200. 5SS. G/90. Rds:
10-1:30-5, 9:30-1. EF: $20 rec'd by 4/18, $30 later. Trophies: 1-3, U1800,
U1600, U1400, U1200/Unrated, School Team (top 4 scores). Top 2 receive
entry into 2012 PA Champ. Title to top PA resident. Scholastic (Sat only):
unrated or U1400 in grades K-12. 4SS. G/40. Rds: 10-11:30-1-2:30. EF:
$15 rec'd by 4/18, $20 later. Trophies: 1-2, U1000, U800/Unrated,
School Team (top 4 scores). All: Reg.: 9-9:45am, PSCF $5, OSA. HR: 570-
455-9300, 1-877-424-6423, $68.95. Ent/Info: GHACC, c/o Michael Jemo,
128 Forest Hills Acres, Hazle Twp., PA 18201, jem023@ptd.net 570-
455-9261. W. Chess Magnet School JGP.
See Grand Prix.
May 5, North Jersey Adults (Limited to Class A and below.) (NJ)
See New Jersey.
See Grand Prix.
July 4-8, 5-8, 6-8, 2-8, 1-3 or 4-5, 40th Annual World Open
See Grand Prix.
Rhode Island
Mar. 17, RI Chess Association Quads
3RR, Game/45 +TD 5. Blackstone Chess Academy, 250 Main St., Paw-
tucket, RI 02860. EF: $20 cash at site or online at www.richess.org. First
each Quad $50. Reg.: ends 10:50. RD1 at 11 AM then ASAP. Info: 401-
837-1302. NS. NC.
See Grand Prix.
See Connecticut.
FOREIGN RATING?
NOT UNRATED!
If you have no USCF rating, but do have
a rating or category from any other coun-
try, no matter how many years ago, you are
not unrated.
If you have a FIDE rating, you are also not
unrated.
Tell the Director of any event you enter
about your foreign rating or category or
your FIDE rating, so that you can be paired
appropriately.
CANCELED
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For Sale
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Instruction
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Wanted
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Classifieds
ChessMate Pocket & Travel Sets
Perfect chess gifts for the chess lover in your life:
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South Carolina
pionships (FL)
See Grand Prix.
Mar. 30-Apr. 1, The Big Enchilada II (NC)
See Grand Prix.
Tennessee
See Grand Prix.
Mar. 17-18, Saint Patricks Day Open
See Grand Prix.
Apr. 14, Tennessee All-Girls Scholastice State Championship
5SS, G/40. 3rd Floor, Keathley University Center, MTSU 1301 E. Main St.,
Murfreesboro, TN 37132. Two Sections: Championship Section open to
all TN girls ages 18 & under. EF: $20 pstmkd by 4/10/12, $25 later.
Competition Section open to all TN girls ages 12 & under. EF: $15.00 if
pstmkd by 4/10/12, $20.00 later, USCF and TCA membership req'd., Tro-
phies 1st6th place, medals 7th10th place, plus prizes to 1st3rd place
in each section. Rds. both sections: 9:00, 10:30, 12:00, 1:30 3:00, Play-
off if needed: G/10, G/5, Coin toss, Winner of Championship Section will
be crowned TN All-Girls State Champion and receive Grand Prize of par-
tial scholarship to college of choice. Special events: Exhibits & Seminars
for players and Parents from WiSTEM, GRITS, NGCP, MTSU, Free games
analysis by NM. Inq.: clarksvillechessclub@charter.net. Ent: Clarksville
Chess Club, c/o Roy Manners, 1215 Cumberland Heights Rd., Clarksville,
TN 37040. Online: www.tnchess.org.
Apr. 21, 2012 Cumberland County Spring Open
Cumberland Co. Community Complex, 1398 Livingston Rd., Crossville, TN
38555. $420 guaranteed prize fund. In 2 Sections: Open: 4SS, G/60, $$:
$75. 30-X,A,B,C,D/Below. Amateur: 4SS, G/60, Open to U1200 & under.
$$: $75. 30-F, G,H/Below,UNR UNR eligible for unrated prize only. ALL:
EF: $15 if mailed by 4/16, $20 at site. Memb. Req'd: TCA $10 TN residents
only. ENT: Harry D Sabine, P.O. Box 381, Crossville, TN 38557. INFO:
www.cumberlandcountychess.com or Susan at 931-261-4024. NS. W.
Apr. 21, Bluff City Open
See Grand Prix.
May 11-13, 2012 National Elementary (K-6) Championship
See Nationals.
June 9-10, 2012 U.S. Amateur South Championship
See Nationals.
Texas
Mar. 24, Spring Slammer
Hornbeak Bldg, 2nd floor, 4450 Medical Dr., San Antonio, TX 78229. 5-SS,
Rd. 1 G/30, Rds. 2-5 G/60. $$ 700 b/40: $175-100; A, B, U1600 ea. $75-
$50; U1400/unr. $50. EF: $20 by 3/22, $25 site. Book & supply sales and
swap during registration. Reg.: 9-10 a.m., Rds.: 10:30-11:30-2-4:30-7:30.
Half-pt. bye any 1 rd., notice before rd. 2. Entries: SACC, 9306 Autumn
Sunrise, San Antonio, TX 78254. Info: sanantoniochess.com, jphyltin@
yahoo.com. NS. NC. W.
Vermont
Apr. 27-29 or 28-29, 23rd annual Vermont Resort Open
See Grand Prix.
See Grand Prix.
Virginia
Arlington Chess Club's Friday Action Tournament
3SS, G/30. Once a month we run a Friday night event - dates are on the
club website: www.arlingtonchessclub.com. Prizes b/entries: 80%
returned as prizes. Reg.: 7:00-8:15pm. Rd. 1: 8:20. EF: $15 ($10 for ACC
Members), no advance entries, cash only. Arlington Forest United
Methodist Church, 4701 Arlington Blvd., Arlington, VA 22202. Contact for
info only: chrisney2@gmail.com. W, NS.
Arlington Chess Club's Friday Ladder
30/90, SD/1. Most monthly game points: $50; most total points Jan. to
Dec.: $100. Must join club to play. Yearly dues: $50 adults, $40
seniors/U18. Cash or check. Reg.: weekly sign-up from 7:00-8:00pm,
games start by 8:10, no advance entries. Arlington Forest United
Methodist Church, 4701 Arlington Blvd., Arlington, VA 22203. Contact for
info only: chrisney2@gmail.com. W, NS. Chess Magnet School JGP (if 4
rounds/games played in that one month).
Mar. 10, Kingstowne Quad #82
3RR, G/100 d/5. Kingstowne Thompson Center, 6090 Kingstowne Village
Pkwy., Alexandria, VA 22315. EF: $10 if received by 3/7, $15 at site. Prizes:
Medals to 1st and 2nd in each quad: gold to 1st if 3-0 score, else silver;
bronze to 2nd. Reg.: 9-10:30. Rds.: 11-3-7. Ent (checks payable to): Don
W. Millican, P.O. Box 2902, Springfield, VA 22152. e-mail (info only):
dm407_92@hotmail.com. W (please give 48-hour notice if needed).
Mar. 17-18, VA Scholastic & Collegiate Championships
6SS, Rds. 1-3 G/60; Rds. 4-6 G/90. Organized by VA Chess Federation.
Blitz Championships Friday at 6PM before the main tournament.
Main tournament is Saturday and Sunday, March 17-18. Players must
be K-12 or College players attending school or college full time in Virginia
as of Jan. 2012, or must be Virginia residents. Virginia residency is NOT
REQUIRED for the Blitz Tournament. Online registration, eligibility, other
details and hotel info at: www.vachess.org or www.vschess.org. Ques-
tions to: Mike Hoffpauir, mhoffpauir@aol.com, or 757-846-4805. Chess
Magnet School JGP.
Mar. 24, Third Saturday Swiss
Ashburn Chess Center, 44927 George Washington Blvd., #120, Ash-
burn, VA 20147. 4SS, G/61 Open & U1200 sections. Prizes: 50% back to
top 3 per section. EF: $18 Preregistered. $20 at site. Members dis-
counted. Reg.: 9-9:30AM. Rd.1 10AM. Halfpt Bye: 1-3. Preregistration
and more info at: http://www.loudounchess.org/reg/accregister.htm.
Mar. 30-Apr. 1, The Big Enchilada II (NC)
See Grand Prix.
Mar. 31, Sterling Chess March Open and RBO
Hilton Inn & Suites Dulles; 22700 Holiday Park Dr., Sterling, VA 20166.
Three sections: Open 4SS, G/61 d5, $$200 b/22, 100/60/40. U1500
4SS, G/61 d5, medal to winner. U1000 4SS, G/25 d5, medal to winner.
Rds.: Open and U1500 11:15, 1:45, 4:15, 6:30. U1000 11:30, 12:45,
2:00, 3:15. Check-in: 10:30-11:00. EF: Open $20, U1500 $15, U1000 $12.
Unrateds free. Entries limited: Register online at www.meetup.com/ster-
ling-chess-tournaments. Pay on website. Info: news@serranoassociates.
com. Bye: Half-point, any round. Chess Magnet School JGP for top two
sections.
See Pennsylvania.
See Pennsylvania.
See Pennsylvania.
Apr. 14-15, Kingstowne Chess Festival - 10th Annual!
See Grand Prix.
See Grand Prix.
Apr. 28, 2012 Walter Muir Memorial
See Grand Prix.
(PA)
See Grand Prix.
See Grand Prix.
West Virginia
See Grand Prix.
Wisconsin
Mar. 31, Rated Beginners Open (RBO)
4SS, G/60. Dual rated. Country Springs Hotel, (262.547.0201); Exit 291,
I-94 and Hwy G, Waukesha, WI 53187. Open to players rated under
1200 or unrated. Prizes: Trophies to top 3, book prizes for class winners.
EF: $15 ($12 by 3/30). Reg.: 8:30-9:30. Rds.: 10:00; 1:00; 3:30; 6:00. Mail
entries to: Waukesha CC, 1911 Stardust Dr., Waukesha, WI 53186.
Phone Info: Jim Nickell (262) 544-6266. Online info: jnickell@wi.rr.com.
A Heritage Event!
Mar. 31, Waukesha Memorial (31st Annual)
A Wisconsin Tour Event! 4SS, G/60. Dual rated. Country Springs Hotel,
(262.547.0201); Exit 291, I-94 and Hwy G, Waukesha, WI 53187. $$Non-
monetary, traveling trophy to First, books for class winners. Open to all.
EF: $15 ($12 by 3/30). Reg.: 8:30-9:30, Rds.: 10:00; 1:00; 3:30; 6:00. No
state memb. req'd. OSA. Mail entries to: Waukesha CC, 1911 Stardust
Dr., Waukesha, WI 53186. Phone Info: Jim Nickell (262) 544-6266.
Online info: jnickell@wi.rr.com.
Apr. 14, Ozaukee Regional Chess Association Spring G/45
4-SS. G/45 D/5. 2 Sections: Open & U1500. Site: Christ Church, 13460
N. Port Washington Rd., Mequon, WI 53097. EF: $15; $10 for paid entries
received by 4/1. $2 discount for ORCA members. Reg.: 9:00-9:45. Rds.:
10-12:30-2:15-4:00. Prizes: 80% of combined EF minus expenses. Ent:
ORCA, c/o Tom Hudson, 822 W. Grand Ave., Port Washington, WI 53074.
Info: www.orcachess.org/tournaments or admin@orcachess.org. NS.
NC.
Apr. 21, Hales Corners Challenge XV
See Grand Prix.
See Grand Prix.
Clubs Committee
The USCF is appointing a Clubs Commit-
tee with Bob Rasmussen, President of the
Fresno Chess Club, as chair. Anyone
interested in discussing how to build a
chess club or joining the committee is
welcome to call Bob at 559-708-8100.
ONCE RATED,
ALWAYS RATED
You never lose your rating, no matter how
long it has been since you last played.
If you return to tournament play after a
long absence, please tell the director your
approximate rating and year of play.
If you rejoin USCF after many years with-
out being a member, please provide this
information to the TD and to USCF as
well.
uschess.org
CHESS TO ENJOY
(page 13)
Problem I.
Jermuk 2009
41. Rb7! threatens 42. Rf7! and 43. Rxf6+. If 41. ...
Kg8 then 42. Qa8+ mates.
Problem II.
Dortmund 1994
41. d7 c2 42. Be3! wins, e.g. 42. ... Qxe3 43. Qxc2+
e4 44. Qc7! and White queens without fear of ...
Be5+.
Problem III.
Bundesliga 1997
41. Nd7! Rf7 42. Qe8+ Kh7 43. Nf8+ and 44. Qxc6
pockets the queen. Or 41. ... Ra8 42. Nf6+! gxf6 43.
exf6 and 42. ... Kh8 43. Rd8+ wins.
Problem IV.
U.S. Championship 2006
41. Nh6+! Qxh6 (41. ... Kf8 42. Qc8 mate or 41. ...
gxh6 42. Qd7+) 42. Qd7+ Ne7! 43. Qxe7+ Kg6 44.
Qe8+ Kf5 (44. ... Kh7 45. Rh1) 45. g4+! and wins
(45. ... Kxg4 46. Qe2+ Kf5 47. Qd3+ Kg4 48. Qf3+
Kg5 49. Qe3+ Kg4 50. Qxb6.
Problem V.
Wijk aan Zee 2011
41. d7! threatens 42. Rc8 and wins, e.g. 41. ... Nxd7
42. Nd5 Qe8 43. Rc8! (43. ... Qxc8 44. Ne7+).
Problem VI.
Gibraltar 2004
41. Qf6+ Kg8 42. Rh2?? fails to 42. ... Nb3+!. White
won with 42. Bc4!, which stops the check, threatens
Qxg6+ or Rh2, e.g. 42. ... bxc4 43. Rb8+ Kh7 44.
Rh2 mate (or 44. Rh8 mate).
SOLITAIRE CHESS
ABCs of Chess (page 15)
Problem I.
Trapping: With 1. ... bxc4, Black gains the bishop,
with a winning ending.
Problem II.
Fork: Black wins easily after the forking 1. ... e4+.
Problem III.
Mating net: Best is 1. ... Ne3+, which mates next
move.
Problem IV.
Mating net: Its mate with 1. ... gxh4+ 2. Kf4 g5
mate.
Problem V.
Mating net: Black mates by 1. ... Qh6+ 2. Kg3
Qh2 mate.
Problem VI.
Mating net: Its all over after 1. ... Bg3+ 2. Kg1
Qh2 mate.
ENDGAME LAB
Benkos Bafflers (page 49)
Problem I.
1. e5
Not quite as good is 1. g5?.
1. ... fxe5 2. g5 e4 3. g6 e3 4. g7 e2
4. ... exf2 5. g8=Q f1=Q 6. Qc4+ wins. If 4. ... Ke2 5.
g8=Q Kxf2 6. Kc3! e2 7. Qa2! now this square is
attainable 7. ... Kf1 8. Qc4 etc. wins.
5. g8=Q e1=Q 6. Qc4+ Kd2 7. Qc2 mate.
Problem II.
1. a5!
Less effective is 1. Kg2? g3! (1. ... b6? 2. c5 bxc5 3.
a5 c4 4. Kf1 wins) 2. fxg3+ Ke5.
1. ... Ke4
1. ... g3 2. c5 Ke5 3. c6! wins.
2. Kg2 Kd4 3. Kg3 Kxc4 4. Kxg4 Kb5 5. Kxg5 Kxa5
6. f4 b5 7. f5 b4 8. f6 b3 9. f7 b2 10. f8=Q b1=Q
11. Qa8+ wins the queen.
These improvements are one pawn less
(economy) and with more misleads.
Chess Life March 2012 71
Solutions
CHESS LIFE USPS# 102-840 (ISSN 0197-260X). Volume 67 No. 3. PRINTED IN THE USA. Chess Life, formerly Chess Life & Review, is published
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SIMULS H SCHOLASTICS H GRANDMASTER CHESS CAMP
INTERNATIONAL YOUTH CHAMPIONSHIP H LECTURES H AND MORE
IVIERA
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ATTENTION AFFILIATES
The United States Chess Federation has
partnered with R.V. Nuccio & Associates
Insurance Brokers, Inc. to provide USCF
affiliates with affordable annual liability
and short term event insurance. The lia-
bility coverage is available for approx-
imately $265 per year for a $1,000,000
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For more information, please go to
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For event insurance, please go to
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CL_03-2012_solutions_JP_r7_chess life 2/10/2012 11:25 AM Page 71
Worlds biggest open tournament!
40th Annual
WORLD OPEN
Sheraton Philadelphia City Center Hotel
Mostly 9 rounds, July 4-8, 5-8, 6-8, 2-8, 1-3 or 4-5, 2012
$250,000 projected prizes, $200,800 minimum guaranteed!
In 13 sections- some can play in more than one section. Free GM lectures & analysis!
A HISTORIC SITE!
The World Open returns to the
Sheraton Philadelphia Hotel, near many
historic landmarks including Independence
Hall, the Franklin Institute, Philadelphia
Museum of Art, and the Liberty Bell, as well
as restaurants, theaters, museums and
shopping. Special room rate $97.
Parking $10 with guest room, $20
without; public lot a block away is about $18
weekday and only $5 on weekend.
SPECIAL FEATURES!
1) Schedule options. 5-day is popular,
7-day leisurely, others save time and money.
2) GM & IM norms possible in Open.
Open, U2400, and U2200 are FIDE rated.
3) Anti-sandbagging rule: $2000 prize
limit if rated more than 30 points over the
class maximum on any list 7/11-6/12.
4) Above rule now also applies if any
post-event rating posted 7/3/11-7/3/12 was
more than 30 points over class maximum!
5) New sections for seniors, women, and
two under 13 sections- and you can play in
both these and the main overall 9 round
sections, without a long delay in between!
6) International 6/29-7/3: many foreign
GMs already entered; see chesstour.com
7) Unique- big money U2400 Section!
8) Many side events; see chesstour.com
or April Chess Life.
9) Free analysis by GM Sam Palatnik
7/4-7/8. Free GM lectures 7/6 & 7/7, 9 am.
IN 13 SECTIONS WITH $250,000 PROJECTED PRIZES!
OPENSECTION: $20000-10000-5000-2500-1200-1000-800-700-
600-500, clear win or top 2 playoff $300, top FIDE U2500 $2000-1000.
UNDER2400: $13000-7000-3000-1500-1000-900-800-700-600-
500, top U2300/Unr $2000-1000. FIDE rated.
UNDER2200: $13000-7000-3000-1500-1000-900-800-700-600-
500, top U2100 (no unr) $2000-1000. FIDE rated.
UNDER2000: $13000-7000-3000-1500-1000-900-800-700-600-
500, top U1900 (no unr) $2000-1000. Unrated limit $2500.
UNDER1800: $13000-7000-3000-1500-1000-900-800-700-600-
UNDER1600: $11000-6000-3000-1500-1000-900-800-700-600-
UNDER1400: $10000-5000-2500-1200-1000-800-700-600-500-
UNDER1200: $5000-2500-1200-1000-800-700-600-500-400-300,
top U1100 (no unr) $1200-600. Unrated limit $800.
UNDER 900: $1000-700-500-400-300-300-300, trophies to first
10, top Under 700, Under 500, Under 300, unrated. Unrated limit $300.
PROVISIONAL PRIZE LIMIT: If under 26 lifetime games
played as of 7/12 official list, limit $600 in U900, $1500 in U1200,
$3000 in U1400 or U1600. Provisionally rated players are NOT unrated!
WOMEN (FIDE rated), SENIOR AMATEUR, UNDER 13
CHAMPIONSHIP & BOOSTER: See Tournament Life
July USCF official ratings used (FIDE used in Open Section).
Reserve early! Chess rate $99-99, 215- 448-
2000, may sell out by 5/31, 2 night min. 7/6-7.
Time limit: Open 40/90, SD/30, inc/30.
U2400 to U1200 40/2, SD/1 (4-day option,
rounds 1-2 G/75, 3-day option, rds 1-5 G/45).
U900, July 6-8 only, G/65. Women & Senior
40/2, SD/1. Under 13 sections G/65. For all
sections but Open, 5 second delay used. For all
sections, no 5 minute deduction from clocks.
Entry fees: see chesstour.com or
Tournament Life. Most fees are lowest if paid
by May 15.
5-day schedule: Wed 7 pm, Thu 11 am&6
pm, Fri 11 & 6, Sat 11 & 6, Sun 10 & 5..
7-day schedule: Mon-Wed each 7 pm, Thu
6 pm, Fri 6 pm, Sat 11 am & 6 pm, Sun 10 & 5.
4-day schedule: Thu 11 am, 2:30 pm & 6
pm, Fri 11 am & 6 pm, Sat 11 & 6, Sun 10 & 5.
3-day schedule: Fri 11 am, 1:30 pm, 3:30
pm, 6 pm & 8:30 pm, Sat 11 & 6, Sun 10 & 5.
Under 900 schedule: Fri 11 am, 2 pm & 5
pm, Sat 10 am, 1 pm & 4 pm, Sun 10, 1 & 4.
Women, Senior, Under 13 sections: see
chesstour.com or Tournament Life.
U2400 to U1200 schedules merge & play
for same prizes. No 4-day or 3-day Open
Section, no 7-day U1400 or U1200.
Late entries end 1 hour before rd 1.
Half point byes: see chesstour.com or
Tournament Life.
Bring sets, boards, clocks- none supplied.
U2000 & higher prizes paid 7/8, others mailed
by 7/23. $15 service charge for refunds.
Special 1 year USCF dues with paper
magazine if paid with entry: see Tournament
Life. USCF membership required.
CL_03-2012_pg72_JP_r1_chess life 2/10/2012 4:41 PM Page 80

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GM Gregory Kaidanov

wins the 38th Eastern Open

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